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“Smoke alarms are critical to saving lives,” : PG Fire Department

Following Wednesday’s fatal fire at the Econo Lodge, the Prince George Fire Department reminds the public to have a working smoke alarm in their home or business.

The scene of the fire (Photo by Brendan Pawliw, MyPGNow.com staff)

Three people died during the downtown blaze and local fire crews along with the Prince George RCMP are currently investigating and have since asked for any video footage or pictures from the public.

Deputy Chief Paul Knudsgaard told MyPGNow.com the results can be fatal if you’re not properly protected.

“Unfortunately, there are sometimes tragic results when patients are unable to recognize smoke or combustion in their home and at that point sometimes without the proper warning it’s too late.”

“Smoke alarms are critical to saving lives. It’s vitally important that people have smoke alarms in their homes, certainly public buildings are equipped with smoke and heat detection devices that are required under the law.”

He adds smoke alarms in homes should be located in the kitchen and near a bedroom with testing occurring every six months.

“There is no legislative requirements in a private home to have a smoke alarm although we highly recommend it there may be insurance applications that relate to smoke alarms. In public buildings that are inspectable, it is recognized under the BC Fire Code that there are specific requirements based on the occupancy as well as the type and size of the building.”

Knudsgaard mentioned that public buildings are equipped with detection devices and businesses can face a range of fines if the alarms aren’t working.

“There are a number of different financial penalties that are in the fire bylaw, depending on the nature of the infraction within the fire code.”

A few witnesses who were staying at the motel at the time of the fire stated that no fire or smoke alarms went off in the building.

Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].

Brendan Pawliw
Brendan Pawliw
Since moving to Prince George in 2015, Brendan has covered local sports including the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, Prince George Spruce Kings, UNBC Timberwolves, Cariboo Cougars AAA, and Northern Capitals U18 female hockey teams. Career highlights include play-by-play during the Spruce Kings' BCHL championship runs in 2018 and 2019, including the Doyle Cup win. He also covered the 2019 National Junior A Championship, the 2017 Telus Cup, the 2022 World Women’s Curling Championship, and the 2022 BC Summer Games. Brendan is the news voice on 94.3 The Goat and Country 97 FM, reporting on crime, real estate, labour, and environmental issues. Outside of work, he officiates box lacrosse and fastball, sits on the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame board, and co-hosts the Hockey North podcast.

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