False alarms are classed as either nuisance or malicious.
A nuisance false alarm is the activation of a fire alarm system through a mechanical failure, equipment malfunction or improper maintenance or installation of the alarm system, but does not include the activation of a fire alarm system where the activation occurred as a result of accidental damage to the system.
A malicious false alarm is the negligent or intentional misuse of a fire alarm system resulting in an activation of the system, but does not include the activation of a fire alarm system under circumstances that would have caused a reasonable person to believe that a fire related emergency was in progress or in circumstances where the owner has notified the Fire Department in advance of work being done on the fire alarm system that could cause a false fire alarm.
The Muskoka Lakes Fire Department issue fees set out in Schedule C of By-law #2021- 122, this is the rate of $543.09 per apparatus per hour. A property address that has been assessed with a false fire alarm charge may appeal a false alarm.
How to request a review of a false alarm charge:
A property address that has been assessed with a false fire alarm charge may appeal a response determined by the fire department as a false alarm. The appeal requesting a review of the charges must be submitted via email.
The request email must include the reason for appeal and provide information to support your request that the incident was not a false fire alarm.
An alarm is considered false if it is determined that the alarm was caused through:
• A mechanical failure
• An equipment malfunction
• Improper maintenance or installation of the system
• The negligent or intentional misuse of a fire alarm system resulting in the activation of the system
An alarm will not be considered false if it is determined that the alarm was caused by:
• A disaster such as earthquakes or severe weather conditions
• Accidental damage to the system, recorded by fire officials upon arrival
• Non-repetitive occurrence of the false alarm caused by smoke or steam
• CO detector activation where CO may have been present
• Fire alarm system testing where Fire Department has been notified in advance
• Vandalism causing damage where police have issued an occurrence number
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