Basement Fire in Duplex Displaces Several Family Members

Cornwall Fire Services responded to a basement fire in a duplex in the Glen Oaks subdivision at approximately 1:20 p.m. on September 22, 2026. At the time the alarm was received, on duty crews were participating in Firefighter Survival Course training. 

Fourteen members were on shift at the time of the call. Basement fires are considered very high-risk incidents due to the difficult conditions firefighters may encounter while operating below grade. Through an effective and coordinated response, crews initiated an interior attack, quickly knocked down the fire and prevented it from spreading to the adjacent unit. 

During the primary search for occupants, firefighters located a cat and successfully rescued it from the building. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Several members of the family have been displaced as a result of the fire. 

Cornwall Fire Services investigators determined the fire to be accidental in nature. During the investigation, it was discovered that several required smoke alarms were missing throughout the building. Following the completion of the investigation and fire operations, the building was released back to the property owners. 

“Today’s response demonstrated the value of regular, hands-on training and coordinated teamwork,” said Platoon Chief Dominic Côté. “Our crews transitioned immediately from firefighter survival training to a very high-risk basement fire within minutes, completed an interior attack, protected the adjacent unit and safely rescued a cat. The discovery of several missing smoke alarms also serves as an important reminder that every home must have working smoke alarms in the required locations.” 

Cornwall Fire Services reminds residents that working smoke alarms provide critical early warning during a fire. Smoke alarms are required to be installed on every level of the home and outside all sleeping areas, newer buildings require smoke alarms in all bedrooms. Residents should test smoke alarms regularly and replace any alarm that is expired or not functioning properly.  

Firefighters will be in the area in the coming weeks to conduct an After the Fire Program. Crews will provide residents with fire safety information and reinforce the importance of working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.