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Ottawa reports highest number of fire fatalities in 20 years

Dec. 8, 2020, Ottawa – The Ottawa Fire Service is warning people to stay diligent as fire fatalities reach a 20-year high.

Since January, nine residents have died in fires in the City of Ottawa. Over the past 20 years (since amalgamation), Ottawa Fire Services has seen an average of 4 fatalities per year. This year being over double the average is a tragic reminder of the importance of home fire safety and how quickly tragedy can strike.

“As we head into the holidays and winter months, Ottawa Fire Services urges residents to be vigilant in preventing fires in your home,” the department said in a press release. “Fire safety planning and early detection through smoke alarms are your best defenses.”

They are encouraging residents to practice ways to reduce fire risks in their homes, such as making sure fire alarms work, and to ensure residents have a fire escape plan in place should a fire occur.