Top 10 Fire Safety Mistakes Ontario Businesses Make (and How to Avoid Them)
- Shaelyn Ferguson
- May 1
- 4 min read
Fire safety isn’t just an annoying regulatory requirement. Fire safety is a critical part of protecting your employees, business, and reputation. Yet many Ontario businesses still unknowingly make easily avoidable mistakes that increase risks and expose them to fines, closures, or worse.
Here are the top ten fire safety mistakes we see on site and what you can do to stay compliant and safe.
Neglecting Regular Fire Inspections
One of the most common (and costly) mistakes is failing to schedule routine fire inspections. Fire protection systems—alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers—require regular annual inspections by a qualified person to ensure they function properly in an emergency.
Why it matters: The local Fire Department can fine or even close businesses that don't meet inspection requirements. A system that hasn’t been inspected can fail when you need it most, putting lives at risk and leaving you liable.
How to avoid it: Set up a consistent inspection schedule that meets Ontario Fire Code requirements.
Not sure if you’re up to date? Contact Correct Fire & Security today for a comprehensive fire inspection.
Ignoring Electrical Hazards
Overloaded circuits, damaged wiring, and improper equipment use are major fire risks. All commercial properties need to comply with the Ontario Fire Code.
Why it matters: A fire at your business can lead to extended closures, and even injuries.
How to avoid it: Conduct regular electrical assessments and address hazards immediately, including things that might seem minor - like an overloaded extension cord.
Request a facility risk assessment with our Master Electrician to identify hidden electrical dangers.
Improper Fire Extinguisher Placement
Fire extinguishers are required by the Ontario Fire Code and Building Code. They can't be installed in places where they are blocked by furniture, placed too far apart, or missing entirely in key required areas.
Why it matters: In an emergency, every second counts. If extinguishers aren’t accessible, small fires can quickly escalate and limit access to emergency exits.
How to avoid it: Ensure extinguishers are:
Clearly visible
Easily accessible
Properly mounted
Located according to hazard level and building layout
Lack of Staff Training & Fire Drills
Even with the best equipment, untrained staff can turn a manageable situation into a disaster. Employees and customers can panic, get confused, and cause additional evacuation hazards.
Why it matters: Training your employees is the law. Employees need to know how to respond quickly and safely—whether it’s using an extinguisher or evacuating to a designated muster point.
How to avoid it: Provide regular fire safety training and conduct evacuation drills at least annually.
Ignoring Fire Alarm & Sprinkler System Maintenance
Fire alarms and sprinkler systems are required in some commercial and residential buildings. If one of these systems is installed, it needs to be maintained and inspected according to Ontario Fire Code.
Why it matters: Faulty alarms can lead to delayed responses, false alarms, or complete system failure.
How to avoid it: Schedule routine testing and maintenance by certified professionals, and address issues immediately.
Need reliable alarm maintenance? Schedule a service visit with Correct Fire & Security today.
Poor Documentation & Recordkeeping
Many businesses fail to keep the legally required records of inspections, maintenance, and even employee training.
Why it matters: In Ontario, documentation is mandatory. Missing records can result in fines or legal complications during inspections.
How to avoid it: Maintain organized, up-to-date records of:
Monthly and Annual Inspections
Repairs
Staff training
Fire drills
We make compliance easy. Ask us about our fire safety documentation support services.
Blocked or Obstructed Emergency Exits
Emergency exits, fire routes, and aisleways must always be kept clear and accessible.
Why it matters: Blocked exits and obstructed routes will slow evacuation in a real emergency, which can lead to serious injuries or deaths.
How to avoid it: Perform regular inspections at least monthly to ensure all exit doors and paths are safe and clear.
Ignoring Fire Extinguisher Maintenance
Not only do fire extinguishers need to be inspected monthly, they also require regular maintenance by a certified professional.
Why it matters: Fire extinguishers that haven't been properly maintained might not work when you need them.
How to avoid it: Get your extinguishers inspected and tagged by the certified technicians at Correct Fire & Security.
Improper Housekeeping & Storage
Clutter and improper storage of flammable materials increase fire risk.
Why it matters: Increased fire risk is an obvious danger. Improper storage can even lead to fines from the local Fire Department.
How to avoid it: Ensure access to the electrical panel is clear. Maintain clean workspaces and follow proper storage guidelines.
Putting Off Fire Suppression System Maintenance
In Ontario, specialized systems like restaurant kitchen suppression systems require regular inspection and maintenance every six months.
Why it matters: Kitchens are high risk environments where a regular extinguisher isn't enough.
How to avoid it: Schedule suppression system maintenance today.
Stay Compliant. Stay Protected.
Fire safety isn’t something to take lightly! Is your business making any of these 10 fire safety mistakes? Avoiding these common mistakes can make all the difference for your business.
At Correct Fire & Security, we help Ontario businesses stay compliant, prepared, and protected with expert inspections, maintenance, and training services.
Ready to improve your fire safety? Contact Correct Fire & Security today for a free consultation and take the first step toward total peace of mind.
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