Residential Fire Preparedness
Understand the fire risks facing Canadian households and the
practical steps that can help improve detection, escape planning
and household readiness.
What the Canadian data shows
residential fires per day on average in participating jurisdictions in 2021
residential fire fatalities reported in 2021
of residential fire incidents from 2015–2021 involved cooking equipment
of residential fire deaths involved homes without a working smoke alarm or with unknown alarm status
Statistics Canada’s 2021 National Fire Information Database
release reported these findings for participating jurisdictions.
The figures should not be interpreted as a complete national
count of every Canadian fire.
Authoritative smoke-alarm guidance
Health Canada advises households to install smoke alarms:
- Inside each bedroom.
- In hallways outside bedrooms.
- On every level of the home, including the basement, subject to applicable codes.
Make alarm maintenance routine
- Test smoke alarms monthly.
- Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and battery instructions.
- Replace alarms more than ten years old.
- Choose products bearing a recognized Canadian certification mark.
Follow current local fire-safety requirements and the
instructions supplied with your specific alarm.
Prepare before a fire happens
A clear escape plan helps everyone understand what to do
when a smoke alarm sounds.
- Create and practise two ways out where possible.
- Select an outdoor meeting place.
- Teach children never to hide and never to re-enter a burning building.
- Account for older adults, mobility needs, hearing needs and pets.
- Keep exits clear and follow official fire-safety guidance.
Once outside, stay outside. Call emergency services
and never go back into a burning building.