Ottawa Fire Prevention Officers Want Seniors to Stay Safe at Home
Ottawa fire prevention officers are stepping up outreach efforts to help the city's senior population reduce their risk of home fires — and the advice is practical, straightforward, and potentially life-saving.
Seniors are statistically at higher risk during residential fires. Factors like mobility challenges, medications that cause drowsiness, and living alone can all make it harder to respond quickly when a fire breaks out. Ottawa Fire Services has made senior fire safety a priority, with prevention officers visiting community centres, long-term care homes, and seniors' residences across the city.
The Biggest Risks in the Home
According to Ottawa fire prevention officers, the kitchen remains the number one location where home fires start — and cooking is the leading cause. Seniors are advised never to leave the stove unattended while cooking, to keep flammable materials like dish towels and paper towels away from burners, and to use a timer as a reminder that something is on the stove.
Heating equipment is the second major risk. Space heaters should be kept at least one metre away from anything that can burn, and should never be left running overnight or when you leave the room.
Smoke Alarms Save Lives — But Only If They Work
One of the most consistent messages from Ottawa's fire prevention team is the importance of working smoke alarms. Every level of your home needs one, and they should be tested monthly. Batteries should be replaced at least once a year — a good habit is to swap them out when the clocks change in spring or fall.
For seniors with hearing difficulties, Ottawa Fire Services recommends looking into interconnected alarms with strobe lights or bed shakers, which can alert someone even if they can't hear a traditional alarm.
Plan Your Escape
Knowing what to do before a fire happens is just as important as prevention. Ottawa fire prevention officers recommend that every household — especially seniors living alone — have a home escape plan with two ways out of every room. Practice the plan so it becomes second nature.
If you use a mobility aid like a walker or wheelchair, make sure your escape routes are clear and accessible at all times. Let a trusted neighbour or building superintendent know so they can check on you in an emergency.
Call Before You Fall Behind
Ottawa Fire Services offers free home fire safety visits for seniors. A prevention officer will walk through your home, check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and offer personalized tips. It's a free service that can make a real difference.
To request a visit or learn more about senior fire safety programs, residents can contact Ottawa Fire Services directly through the City of Ottawa's website.
Staying safe at home is about small habits done consistently — and Ottawa's fire prevention team is here to help every resident build them.
Source: CTV News Ottawa / Ottawa Fire Services
