A Brockton couple, while pleased with the emergency departments’ response time, doesn’t believe they should face such a hefty bill over a misunderstanding.
Nancy and Charles Osterndorf said a passerby must have dialled 911 after seeing smoke on their property on County Road 19 on January 4, 2020.
Three firetrucks and OPP units responded only to find a small, controlled brush fire at the back of their property.
Nancy said the town waived a $200 fine for not having a permit to burn the wood, but did send them a bill for $2,203.93 to cover the costs of the fire department’s response.
“The call fee on the bill was like $40, the staffing fee which I have no problem with either was over $200, but the equipment fee was $1,875. That’s the trucks coming out, and they didn’t do anything,” said Nancy.
Nancy encouraged the public to “think before you dial,” and be sure you’re calling about a real emergency.
“Everybody needs to be aware that when you’re doing something to help the community, make sure you’re helping and not hurting by misunderstanding,” added Osterndorf.
Brockton town staff will create a report and present it to council at a later date with a recommendation.