Fire Prevention

Fire prevention starts with you. Protect your home with a smoke alarm. The Ontario Fire Code requires every home to have a working smoke alarm.

About Fire Prevention

Fire prevention works on meeting the requirements of the Fire Prevention and Protection Act as it relates to the provision of fire prevention and public education programs.

Inspections

Fire safety inspections are performed in all types of occupancies throughout the Town's coverage area. The majority of these inspections are initiated by requests from building owners regarding licensing or Fire Code compliance, complaints received from the public or outside agencies, and new construction.

Public Education

Fire safety education is presented to thousands of St. Marys and area residents. The department conducts fire safety seminars at all area schools reaching thousands of students as well as conducting public education displays and seminars for children's groups, seniors, and other private groups throughout the year.

Advertisements and fire safety messages are always in local print media regarding fire safety events and messages for the general public.

Arson Prevention

T.A.P.P.C. is The Arson Prevention Program for Children which the department supports. This is a partnership program offered by fire departments and children's mental health professionals in the community. It offers fire safety education to parents, caregivers and children at the age level of the child. Confidential counselling is also available, if needed.

Experts estimate that 50% of all arson fires are started by juveniles. Approximately 50 to 60% of these children are motivated by curiosity. For the remainder, however, fire play can be a symptom of other problems.

It is estimated that there are roughly 10 times the number of unreported fires as reported ones. Children cause many of these unreported fires and without detection and/or education, they may very well continue until a large and potential tragic fire results.