(QUINTE WEST, ON) - An Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer’s quick actions have helped save a life in Quinte West.

On Monday, October 13, 2025, at approximately 4:00 am, officers with the Quinte West OPP, the Quinte West Fire Department and the Hastings-Quinte Paramedic Service responded to a residential fire on Fifth Avenue.

A witness, who was alerted by a smoke alarm, called 911 and then attempted to reach an occupant in a basement unit. The witness had to retreat due to heavy smoke.

An officer, who was the first to arrive on scene, was able to locate the distressed occupant in a locked room and bring them to safety.

The officer’s quick and courageous actions lead to a successful rescue. The occupant was transported to the hospital for care. All other occupants were able to get out safety.

The Quinte West OPP and the Quinte West Fire Department remind you to check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are in proper working order.