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“The cause was determined to be smoking materials, which ignited some flooring or bedding materials,” said Tillsonburg Fire Chief Shane Caskanette. The fire broke out in the early hours of March 8 on the fourth floor of a six-storey apartment building at 195 Lisgar Avenue in this south-east London city. A resident of the building, who asked not to be named, said there was another guard at the spot. Residents were able to return to collect some items, but could not remain in the structure at this time. Repair work is underway, but there is no set timetable for when it will be completed. There was an operating fire alarm system in the building, Caskanette said. Fire officials say careless smoking was the cause of the March 8 fire in an apartment in Tillsonburg. Photo by CHRIS ABBOTT / Norfolk & Tillsonburg News “I’m definitely encouraging our residents to make sure they have smoke and (carbon monoxide) alarms that work. “This is one of the key things people can do to ensure their safety and the safety of their families.” Firefighters rescued about 16 people from their balconies after the corridors and stairs were filled with smoke. There was significant water damage to downstairs units and smoke damage throughout the building, Caskanette said. Oxford County officials were available to help residents after the fire. The Salvation Army helped the victims with material support – food and other basic necessities.
