Community Risk Reduction

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire Prevention Division is responsible for the enforcement of the Ontario Fire Code and its regulations.  While it is the responsibility of a property owner to ensure that applicable regulations and statutes are complied with, the Fire Prevention Division conducts regular routine inspections to ensure properties meet the minimum standards of fire and life safety.  Failure to comply with these regulations is a chargeable offence under the Provincial Offences Act, and can be subject to penalties as outlined in the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997.

Fire Safety Inspections are conducted one of three ways; a routine inspection, a request inspection or a complaint inspection.

The Fire Prevention Division conducts routine inspections on a number of properties including commercial, industrial, institutional and short-term rental properties.  Based on the Town's risk assessment and a review of the Town's building stock, the Prevention Division has implemented an inspection program with the intention of inspecting all non-residential properties to ensure our community is fire safe.

Routine Inspection:  Educate requirements to remain fire safe.

Request Inspection: Owners requesting a fire safety inspection are to write into to the Fire Prevention Office or contact them by e-mail.  The address of the property, the owner's information and a reason for the request must be provided.  Please be aware that there is a fee for this service, and the cost can be found within the Fee Schedule.

If a member of the public has reason to believe that

Complaint Inspection: A resident who believes that a property within the Town does not comply with the Ontario Fire Code or believes that there are fire hazards on or within a property may file a complaint with the Fire Prevention Division.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency is proud to have supported and be a part of Niagara College, Brock University, the Niagara Regional Fire Chiefs Association and the Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association, Niagara Chapter with the Knowfire fire and safety awareness program for young adults who are venturing out into the world on their own for the first time. 

For information and resources regarding campus housing safety, visit the Campus Housing page on the NFPA website.

All of the below contribute to the overall fire safety in our community:

• Know Fire
• Smoke Alarms Save Lives
• Open Air Burn Guidelines 
• Balcony Barbequing
• Short Term Rental Inspection Checklist
• Code Requirements for Owners of Commercial Buildings (functional testing)
• Code Requirements for Owners of Commercial Buildings (visual inspections)

In Ontario, working smoke alarms are required by law on every level of your home, outside sleeping areas. Homes built after 2014 are required to have working hard-wired smoke alarms equipped with visual signalling devices such as flashing strobe lights on every level and inside every bedroom.  

Life Spans & Where to Buy

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All smoke alarms expire after 10 years, regardless of the model or type. Expired smoke alarms will not function as intended and must be replaced. You can find either the date of manufacture or the expiry date on the back or the side of the smoke alarm. If you cannot find the date but know the device is old, replace it! Ensure you are buying reputable smoke alarm brands from a trusted retailer, such as a hardware store. Many alarms sold online do not meet the minimum safety standards in Canada.

Installation Type

• Hardwired Smoke Alarms – Hardwired smoke alarms offer very reliable protection because they are powered directly by the electricity in your home, and they are equipped with a battery-backup feature in case of a power outage. Hardwired alarms are interconnected, meaning that when one alarm activates, they all sound, giving you the earliest warning possible in a fire emergency. Hardwired smoke alarms expire after 10 years, must be installed and/or replaced by a licensed electrician, and cannot be replaced with conventional battery-operated smoke alarms. The backup battery must be replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and whenever the low-battery indicator sounds.

• Conventional Battery-Operated Smoke Alarms – As the name suggests, battery-operated smoke alarms are battery-powered. Typically, these alarms run on either 9V or AA batteries, which must be replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, when the low battery indicator sounds, when the smoke alarm doesn’t function when tested, or every six months - when you change your clocks, change your batteries! Battery-operated smoke alarms expire after 10 years and must be replaced.

• Non-Replaceable Long-Life Battery Smoke Alarms – Newer smoke alarms are now available with a 10-year lithium-ion battery that does not need to be replaced for the unit’s lifespan. These units are great for hard-to-reach ceilings, or for those who do not wish to maintain batteries. Some newer smoke alarms offer wireless interconnection through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology. These units expire after 10 years and must be replaced.

Smoke Alarm Features

• Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Combination (CO) Alarms – Combination units that detect both smoke and CO are available in both hardwired and battery-operated models. These alarms will indicate whether smoke or CO is present through voice messaging or different sounding beeps. Combination alarms are available in hardwired, conventional battery-operated, and long-life battery units. These units expire after 10 years and must be replaced.

• Visual Smoke Alarms – Visual smoke alarms incorporate a visual component such as a strobe light in addition to an audible alarm when smoke is detected. These types of alarms are highly recommended for hearing-impaired individuals. If your home was built after 2014, your smoke alarms will already be equipped with visual signalling devices.

• Hush Features – As it is against the law to dismantle or tamper with smoke alarms, many are now equipped with hush buttons to help control nuisance alarms. Hush buttons are useful when things like cooking or steam accidentally set off your alarm.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms

Carbon monoxide is a deadly colourless, odourless, tasteless,  gas that diffuses evenly through the air. Regardless of the age of your home, if you have any oil, propane, or gas-burning appliances, a furnace or water heater, wood or gas fireplace, or an attached garage, you are required by law to have a functioning carbon monoxide alarm installed outside of all sleeping areas.

Installation Type

• Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Combination Alarms – Combination units that detect both smoke and CO are available in hardwired, battery-operated, and long-life battery models. These alarms will indicate whether smoke or CO is present through voice messaging or different sounding beeps. Combination alarms will expire after 10 years and must be replaced. It is a common misconception that CO is heavier than air. It will diffuse in air evenly, making alarms installed in the ceiling as effective as alarms installed closer to the floor.

• Plug-In Alarms – These alarms plug directly into an electrical outlet, and are equipped with a battery backup in case your home loses power. These units will expire after 5-7 years depending on the model.

• Wall-Mounted Units – These alarms are powered by a 9v battery and are mounted to the wall. The battery must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and replaced annually. These units will expire after 5-7 years depending on the model.

My alarm is going off, what should I do?

• There may be a fire or carbon monoxide emergency. Immediately leave the building and call 9-1-1.

Why is my alarm chirping?

• All alarms containing batteries (including hardwired alarms with battery backups) have a low battery warning that “chirps” when the battery is low and needs to be changed. If you hear your alarm continually chirping, replace the battery immediately.
• Many smoke alarms have an end-of-life chirp that will indicate that it’s time to replace the unit. Check the back of your alarm or manufacturer instructions to troubleshoot the sound you’re hearing.
• Sometimes a chirping hardwired alarm can indicate an electrical issue. If you’ve replaced the battery and the issue persists, have a licensed electrician inspect the alarm and the wiring.

How can I minimize false alarms?

• Do not install a smoke alarm within 20 feet of cooking appliances. This will help eliminate false alarms resulting from routine and safe cooking operations.
• Do not install a smoke alarm too close to the bathroom or very humid areas. Humidity, such as shower steam, can cause false alarms.
• Dust your alarms once in a while. Dust build-up, cobwebs, and even insects can cause repeat false alarms.
• Ensure hardwired alarms have been installed by a licensed electrician.

What should I do if I have a faulty alarm?

• If the alarm is hardwired, have a licensed electrician inspect the alarm and the wiring, and replace the alarm if necessary.
• Contact the manufacturer who can help you resolve any issues with the defective unit. Many smoke alarms come with warranties and may be replaced by the manufacturer.
• If the alarm is a battery-operated unit, you can install a new one without an electrician. 

Where can I find the expiry date on my smoke or CO alarm?

• Either the date of manufacture or the expiry date can be found on the back or the side of both smoke and CO alarms. Some units from the 1990s and early 2000s are not dated. If you can’t find a date but know the unit is old, replace it.

Ontario has recently experienced a drastic increase in serious fire incidents caused by lithium-ion batteries. These batteries supply power to many everyday items such as smartphones, laptops, e-cigarettes, micro-mobility devices, toys, and so much more. It’s important to understand how to safely maintain and use devices powered  by lithium-ion batteries to help prevent accidents from occurring. When used improperly, lithium-ion batteries can cause fires and even explosions. Please read through some general safety tips below to help prevent lithium-ion battery incidents.

• Only purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Stick to reputable brands, especially when buying a device online.
• Use only the battery that was designed for the device. When replacing batteries, do so through the manufacturer of the device.
• Only use the charger that came with the device. Do not use after-market batteries or charging devices.
• Avoid excessive charging, which can shorten the battery’s lifespan or cause overheating.
• Do not charge your device where heat cannot escape, such as under your pillow or on a couch.
• Store lithium-ion batteries at room temperature, out of the sun, and away from excessively humid areas.
• Replace the battery if it is visibly damaged in any way.
• Stop using your lithium-ion battery device immediately and contact the manufacturer if you notice any of the following; excessive heat, any odour or leaking, change in shape, change in colour, or odd noises.
• If you notice the battery or device is sparking or smoking call 911. If it is safe to do so, move the device outside and away from anything that could catch fire.

For more information on lithium-ion battery safety, visit Lithium-Ion Battery Safety on the NFPA site.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

When used safely and properly, portable fire extinguishers can save lives and property by putting out or containing small fires until the fire department arrives. There are many different ratings and sizes of portable fire extinguishers available, which are outlined below.

Class Ratings

• Class A: Involves ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cloth, and some plastics.
• Class B: Involves flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, grease, and other oil-based products.
• Class C: Involves electrical equipment fires where non-conductive extinguishing agents are needed.
• Class D: Involves flammable metals, such as magnesium, sodium, and potassium.
• Class K: Involves cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens.

Number Ratings

• Class A: The number before the "A" represents the equivalent amount of water the extinguisher holds, in terms of 1.25 gallons (5.75 liters) of water. For example, a "3A" rating means the extinguisher is equivalent to using 3.75 gallons (14 liters) of water on the fire.
• Class B: The number before the "B" represents the area (in square feet) the extinguisher can cover. For example, a "20B" rating means the extinguisher can cover 20 square feet (2 square meters) of a Class B fire.
• Class C: There is no number rating for Class C fires because the rating signifies that the extinguisher is non-conductive and safe for use on electrical fires.
• Class D: Ratings for Class D fires are based on specific testing with different metals, and there is no standardized number rating system like for Class A and B.
• Class K: Similar to Class C and D, there are no number ratings, but they are specifically tested for effectiveness against commercial cooking fires.

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Example Rating: 3A:10B:C 3A: Effective as 3.75 gallons (14 liters) of water on Class A fires. 10B: Can cover 10 square feet (1 square m) of a Class B fire. C: Safe for use on electrical equipment fires.

Understanding these ratings is crucial for selecting the appropriate type and size of fire extinguisher for various fire hazards. A portable fire extinguisher with a 2A:10B:C rating is highly recommended for residential households. These extinguishers are effective against Class A, B, and C fires, are large enough to extinguish a small fire, and aren’t too heavy, making them comfortable to handle. Be sure to purchase fire extinguishers from reputable retailers, and ensure the extinguisher is listed to meet safety and performance standards.

To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS:

• Pull the pin to break the tamper seal. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.
• Aim low. Point the nozzle at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly to release the extinguishing agent.
• Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

Remember, only use a portable fire extinguisher on small fires, and only if it is safe to do so. The number one priority for residents during a fire is to escape safely. For more information on portable fire extinguishers, visit the Fire Extinguisher Information page on the NFPA site.

Did you know that 70% of fires in Canada occur at home? Protect your family and home with smoke alarms and an escape plan. Draw a floor plan of your home showing all possible exits from each room, and plan both a main and alternate escape route, especially from bedrooms. Having a planned escape route can reduce panic and confusion during a fire and, most importantly, save lives.

• Choose a Meeting Place - Designate a safe meeting place outside your home where everyone can gather and call 9-1-1. The best spot is in front of your home, where firefighters will arrive.
• Practice Your Plan - Conduct a fire drill at least every six months, starting from a bedroom. Sound the alarm and ensure everyone participates. Practice moving quickly and carefully without confusion. Don't rush; make sure everyone knows exactly what to do. After the drill, discuss what happened and how to improve.
• Make Drills Realistic - Practice two escape routes, varying the location of the "fire" in each drill, such as in the attic or kitchen. Ensure everyone understands how routes change based on the fire's location. Pretend there are no lights and that the escape routes are filling with smoke.
• Crawl Low Under Smoke - Since heat and smoke rise, the air near the floor is coolest and clearest. If you encounter smoke or flames, get down on your hands and knees and crawl to the nearest safe exit.
• Test Every Door - Before opening any door, use the back of your hand to check if it's hot. If it is, use an alternate exit. If it's cool, brace your shoulder against the door, open it carefully, and be ready to close it quickly if heat or smoke rush in. Close all doors behind you as you leave to slow the spread of smoke and fire.
• If You Are Trapped - Close doors between you and the fire, and use blankets or towels to cover vents and cracks. Signal for help from a window with a flashlight or bright-colored cloth. If you have a phone, call 9-1-1 and give your exact location.
• In a Two-Storey House - Make sure everyone can unlock and open windows and doors quickly. Know how to escape from the second floor safely, and make special arrangements for children and people with special needs.
• Get Out Fast - Ensure your family knows to leave immediately upon hearing a smoke alarm or someone shouting "Fire!" You can incorporate your pets in your escape planning and drills but don’t ever reenter a building to try and find pets. Once outside, call 9-1-1 and stay out.
• Don’t Go Back - Once outside and at the meeting place, do not re-enter the burning house. Firefighters are trained for rescues and will let you know when it’s safe to return. Get out and stay out!

For more information on home escape planning, and for escape planning templates, visit the Home Fire Escape page on the NFPA website.

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet (one meter) away from heating equipment, such as the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater. Do not use your service spaces for storage.
• Establish a three-foot (one-meter) "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Ensure heating equipment and chimneys are cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.
• Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the correct type of fuel specified by the manufacturer for fuel-burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room. Allow ashes to cool before placing them in a metal container and keep the container a safe distance from your home.
• Do not use your service spaces for storage
• Install wood-burning stoves following the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional for the installation.
• Vent all fuel-burning equipment to the outside to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

For more information about fuel-burning appliance safety, or to find registered contractors, please visit the TSSA webpage.