Why a fire safety plan matters
When a fire breaks out, every second counts. Your fire safety plan tells Wrenford Fire Rescue exactly how to enter your building, where to find hazards, and how to keep everyone safe. Under the Ontario Fire Code, most commercial buildings, multi-unit residences, and public assembly spaces must have a written plan ready before occupancy. The plan stays active as long as the building is in use.
Who needs a plan
You need a plan if your property is:
- A store, restaurant, office, or warehouse
- A multi-unit apartment or condominium building
- A school, daycare, or community centre
- A hotel, motel, or rooming house
Single-family homes do not need a formal plan. If you are unsure whether your building requires one, visit Fire Station 1 (Headquarters) or email [email protected].
What goes in the plan
Your plan should live in a secure binder at the main entrance or with the property manager. It must include:
- Vital Building Information sheet — A quick reference page that lists the address, number of occupants, utility shut-off locations, and fire protection systems. Fire crews use this page first.
- Evacuation maps — Clear drawings showing all exits, stairways, assembly points outside, and routes for people with mobility challenges.
- Communication procedures — How staff will alert occupants, contact 9-1-1, and meet fire crews at the entrance.
- Hazard and system logs — Records of monthly fire alarm and sprinkler tests, plus any known hazards like blocked exits or temporary storage.
How to submit and review your plan
Before your building opens, the plan must be reviewed and accepted by Wrenford Fire Rescue. You can submit your draft through the Fire Prevention portal at Fire Rescue. A Fire Safety Codes Officer will review your documents within 30 business days. If corrections are needed, you will receive a notice with a 30-day window to fix the issues. The standard initial review fee is $175.00. Once accepted, you must review and update the plan every 12 months.
| Step | Timeline | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Initial review | 30 business days | Fire Safety Codes Officer evaluates your submission |
| Correction period | 30 days | Fix deficiencies noted in the review letter |
| Annual update | Every 12 months | Submit revised plan and symbol guide |
Minimum safety measures for fire response
Fire Rescue crews need clear access and working systems to protect your property and the public. Your plan must confirm that:
- All fire hydrants and standpipe connections are visible and free of snow, landscaping, or stored items.
- Fire department access roads are at least 6 metres wide and can support heavy apparatus.
- Main entrances are clearly marked and unlocked or accessible to emergency crews at all times.
- Fire alarm panels and control valves are posted with approved symbols and kept in plain view.
Get help preparing your plan
You do not have to do this alone. Fire Rescue staff can walk you through the required forms, review your draft, and answer questions about compliance. Download the Fire safety plans for buildings template and symbol guide, or call 519-555-0115 during business hours. You can also ask about the Fire safety plans for fire alarms checklist if your building has a zoned alarm system.