What Are the Main Causes of Fires in Quebec
Learn the main causes of residential and commercial fires in Quebec and how Guard-X Protection incendie can help you prevent these risks with reliable, code-compliant solutions.
Each year, nearly 16,500 fires occur in Quebec. At Guard-X, a fire safety leader in Montreal, we know that the best protection comes from:
- High-quality equipment (alarms, extinguishers, sprinklers, etc.)
- Professional installation
- Strict maintenance
Here are the main causes of residential and commercial fires — and our recommendations to help keep you safe.
Residential Fires: When Human Error Is to Blame
Distraction, negligence, and carelessness are responsible for the majority of house fires. In fact:
- 50% of residential fires are caused by human error
- 25% of all fires start in the kitchen
Common risky behaviors include:
- Leaving a lit candle unattended
- Forgetting a pot on the stove
- Overloading electrical outlets
- Failing to clean the chimney
- Ignoring the dryer lint filter
- Smoking in bed or on a couch
- Storing hot ashes near flammable materials
Mechanical or electrical failures (e.g., short circuits) are also frequent causes.
Concerning fact: Nearly 1 in 3 residential buildings affected by fire lack a working smoke detector or fire alarm system (Source: Québec’s Ministry of Public Security).
Commercial Fires: Very Real Risks
Businesses, restaurants, offices, and other facilities are not immune to fire hazards. Leading causes include:
- Faulty or poorly maintained electrical installations
- Improper storage of flammable substances
- Incorrect use of workplace equipment
- Careless behavior by staff
To protect your employees, clients, and assets, it’s essential to:
- Install certified fire protection systems
- Train staff in fire safety best practices
- Create and implement a clear evacuation plan
Guard-X: Sales, Installation, and Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment
For over 75 years, Guard-X has been committed to protecting people and property from fire across Montreal.
We provide:
Fire alarm systems and smoke detectors
Portable fire extinguishers, automatic sprinklers
Inspection and certification in compliance with CBCS and NFPA standards
Personalized recommendations based on your needs