The chief engineer may carry into effect any bylaw or regulation of the district, and may direct alterations in the position and repairs of fireplaces, furnaces, stoves and other things from which damage from fire is apprehended. If such directions are not complied with forthwith, he or she may cause such change or repairs to be made, and recover the expense thereof, with costs, of the owner or possessor in a civil action in the name of the district.