It was a complaint that drew Welland Fire and Emergency Services to a two-storey home with only one working smoke alarm in the basement to protect 18 college students jammed into seven rooms.

No working smoke alarms were found in sleeping rooms or on other floor areas during an inspection at 252 King St. last October, a release from the city said.

Numerous other Ontario Fire Code deficiencies were found.

Fire prevention officers directed the property owner to provide working smoke alarms in the residence, including in all sleeping rooms, that day to ensure the safety of the occupants.

Fire Chief Brian Kennedy said it was one of the more extreme student housing situations he's seen.

"Students should report these kinds of things. We want to hear from them."

Kennedy said the fire service comes across similar situations during regular inspections but said most are complaint-driven.

A release from the city said students new to Welland should ensure their rental property is provided with working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they move in.

"Student housing is very prevalent . and the fire service will continue to enforce the Ontario Fire Code in these occupancies to ensure the safety of these tenants in our community," the release said.

After finding numerous fire code violations inside the King Street home, and the risks they posed to the students, the property owner was prosecuted.

The property owner - the city did not identify the individual - was convicted in Provincial Offences Court for failing to maintain a smoke alarm in operating condition, failing to implement an approved fire safety plan, and fined $6,000 plus court costs and a victim fine surcharge.

The owner was also directed to correct other deficiencies at the property by way of an inspection order.

The fire service said fire code deficiencies will not be tolerated in the city no matter the building.

Nathaniel.Johnson@niagaradailies.com

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