Statement from the Town of Halton Hills: Investigation Deems Fire due to Accidental Causes

Halton Hills, ON – On Monday, December 28, 2020 the Halton Hills Fire Department responded to a fire at 46 Cobblehill Road in Acton. Heavy black smoke and flames extended through the front windows of the home resulting in one fatality and one occupant with burns and smoke inhalation.

An investigation by the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal identified that the cause of the fire was accidental due to a failure of the Christmas tree lighting system. Jason M. Williams, Fire and Explosion Investigator noted that “The public fire safety message that is important in this case is to ensure that your Christmas tree is kept watered, and that it is removed after the Christmas season or kept watered to ensure it doesn’t dry out and become readily ignitable. Research has shown that half of all Christmas tree fires happen between the dates of December 22 and January 5”.

Approximately 20 firefighters attended the scene along with members of the Halton Regional Police Service and EMS. Deputy Chief Marshall noted that one third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical issues and that residents should never leave tree lights on when they are not at home.

About the Town of Halton Hills

The Town of Halton Hills, with a population of approximately 60,000, consists of two urban centres, Georgetown and Acton, the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area, three hamlets – Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval and several smaller settlements. Halton Hills has long been recognized for its natural beauty, active agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major centres, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto. The Town is ranked as one of the top small communities in Canada by a national magazine. Visit the website at haltonhills.ca