Your safety in bars and nightclubs
When you are out enjoying Wrenford bars, nightclubs and special events, you should be able to relax and feel safe. To help keep you safe, we make sure buildings and event sites follow all fire and safety rules. Before you go out, take a moment to look around. You should always check that:
- The building is well maintained and clean.
- The main entrance allows for easy entry and exit.
- You can see at least two clearly marked and well-lit exits.
- The exits are not blocked by furniture, people or stored items.
- The venue does not feel overcrowded.
- If candles, pyrotechnics or other heat sources are used, they are placed safely away from curtains and decorations.
If anything about the building makes you feel unsafe, leave immediately and call 311 to report your concerns from inside, or 9-1-1 for an emergency.
What to do if you hear a fire alarm
If you hear a fire alarm, try to stay calm. Leave the building quickly through the nearest exit. Do not stop to collect your belongings. Once you are outside, stay outside and move away from the building. This keeps you safe and gives emergency responders easy access to the site.
Fire safety plan requirements
Under the Ontario Fire Code, every bar and nightclub in Wrenford must have a written fire safety plan. The plan must be kept at the location and given to the fire department on request. It must include:
- Emergency procedures for staff and visitors.
- Evacuation routes and assembly areas.
- Names and contact details of the building owner and fire safety director.
- Rules for handling pyrotechnics or open flames.
- Regular fire drill schedules.
Use our bar and nightclub safety checklist on a daily basis to make sure all equipment and exits are ready. Building owners are responsible for maintaining all fire safety equipment, including sprinkler systems, fire doors and emergency lighting.
Consequences of non-compliance
Failure to follow the Ontario Fire Code can lead to serious penalties. You can face fines up to $15,000 or six months in jail. The city can also issue daily fines of up to $1,000 for each day the issue continues. In serious cases, the business licence can be revoked. Additional details are available in the Ontario Fire Code and the Municipal Act, 2001.
Submit your plan and schedule an inspection
All new plans must be reviewed by Wrenford Fire Rescue before the venue opens. You can submit your plan online or by mail. A standard review takes three business days. Once approved, we will schedule a routine inspection. If an inspector finds issues, you will get a deficiency notice. You have 30 days to fix the problems before we request a follow-up inspection. A re-inspection fee of $150.00 applies if we need to return after a deficiency notice.
Contact us
For questions about fire safety plans, inspection schedules or permit applications, contact the Fire Prevention Office at Fire Station 1 (Headquarters).
- Phone: 519-555-0115
- Email: [email protected]
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Address: 210 Water Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A6
Wrenford Fire Rescue works with the Wrenford Police Service and the Liquor License and Appeal Board to keep our nightlife safe. If you notice a venue without a posted fire safety plan or blocked exits, please report a by-law infraction online.