What is a fire safety plan for fire alarms?
A fire safety plan for fire alarms explains how your building's fire alarm system works and what staff or residents should do if the alarm goes off. In Ontario, the Fire Code requires most commercial, multi-unit residential, and public buildings to have a written fire safety plan. The plan must include clear steps for testing, maintaining, and operating your fire alarm system, as well as procedures for evacuating the building safely.
Who needs a plan?
You need a fire safety plan if your property has a fire alarm system and falls into one of these categories:
- Commercial and retail buildings
- Multi-family dwellings, including apartments and condominiums
- Office buildings and institutional facilities
- Buildings with fire alarm control panels or notification appliances
Single-family homes are not required to have a formal fire safety plan, but you should always test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly.
How to submit your plan
Follow these steps to get your fire alarm safety plan reviewed and approved:
- Download the Fire Safety Plan template and symbol guide.
- Complete the template with your building details, alarm system layout, and designated fire safety staff.
- Upload your completed plan through the Fire Prevention online portal or email it to [email protected].
- Pay the $175.00 initial review fee through the City of Wrenford's online payment system or by mail to Wrenford City Hall.
- Wait for a confirmation email. A Fire Prevention Officer will review your submission and contact you within five business days.
Review cycle and updates
Your fire alarm safety plan must be reviewed every 12 months. You will receive a reminder email before your review deadline. If you make changes to your building's alarm system, layout, or fire safety staff, you must update your plan and submit the revised version within 30 days. Updated plans are reviewed at no additional cost. Failing to submit a plan or keep it current can result in fines and may void your building's insurance coverage.
Annual testing requirements
Ontario law requires that fire alarm systems be tested annually by a licensed technician. Once the test is complete, the technician will provide a certificate of compliance. You must keep this certificate on file and make it available to Fire Prevention Officers during routine inspections. We recommend scheduling your annual test early in the year to avoid processing delays.
Support and inspections
Our Fire Prevention team is here to help you stay compliant and keep your building safe. We conduct routine fire safety inspections to verify that your fire alarm system is operational and matches your approved plan. If you have questions about system testing, annual certification, or plan updates, contact us directly.
Fire Prevention Office
Fire Station 1 (Headquarters)
210 Water Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A6
Phone: 519-555-0115
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
You can also reach us by email at [email protected] or visit the Fire Rescue section for more prevention resources.