Joanne Foot

The applicant fire department applied for an order under s. 33(1) of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act to authorize it to carry out work required by an Inspection Order issued to the respondent, who had accumulated a large amount of combustible materials in her home.

The respondent's son indicated a plan to clear the materials, but progress was delayed by the COVID-19 Emergency Order.

The Fire Safety Commission found that there was a bona fide intention to comply and granted an extension of time, ordering that if the respondent failed to comply within 30 days of the lifting of emergency restrictions or by July 2, 2020, the applicant would be authorized to enter and complete the work at the respondent's expense.

The appellant appealed a review decision upholding an inspection order that required him to reduce combustible materials in his home to maintain clearances from appliances and ceilings, and to provide clear access to exits.

The appellant did not dispute the fire safety concerns but requested more time to comply due to personal circumstances, including his wife's illness.

The Fire Safety Commission found the ordered measures necessary to ensure fire safety but amended the order to extend the compliance date.