Residential fire in Oshawa on Olive Avenue
Following an extensive residential fire that broke out early the morning of March 22, Oshawa Fire Services has called in the Toronto Heavy Urban Search and Rescue unit for assistance.
At approximately 12:54 a.m. on Monday, March 22, emergency operators received a call of a house fire at 149 Olive Avenue between Simcoe Street and Ritson Road in Oshawa.
Upon arrival, fire crews encountered heavy fire and heavy smoke conditions. Emergency responders assisted multiple people.
At this time, there are four people who are unaccounted for. Of the individuals that were transported to hospital, one person remains in hospital at Lakeridge Health.
“It is with heavy hearts that we report that at this time there are four residents who are unaccounted for. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those community members,” said Oshawa Fire Chief Derrick Clark.
“We are extremely saddened to learn of this tragic event. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends who have been impacted during this difficult time,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “Our appreciation goes out to the first responders including our fire crews.”
In total, seven properties were impacted by the fire at 149 Olive Avenue. Residents of the street whose homes were impacted are receiving temporary lodging.
The Toronto Heavy Urban Search and Rescue unit is on scene to assist. At this time, 149 Olive Avenue is an active investigation. The Ontario Fire Marshal is on scene to investigate and Oshawa Fire Services Fire Prevention Division is working with the Office of the Fire Marshal and Durham Regional Police Service to determine the cause of the fire.
Residents are reminded that it is critical and required by law that all landlords and homeowners have a working smoke alarms on every storey of the home in addition to outside all sleeping areas, as well as working carbon monoxide alarms.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested monthly and replaced if they are more than 10 years old. For non-working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, the fine is up to $50,000 for an individual and/or one-year imprisonment.
Families are also reminded to ensure they have an escape plan in place and practice it regularly with all household members.