If you are a recent victim of a fire, please know that you are not alone and that there are a number of organizations and services to help you, so that your life can get back to normal as quickly as possible. 

In this section, you'll learn what to do and what steps to take after the fire.

Anticipating the unforeseeable: Prevention tips

Preparing an emergency kit

In any emergency situation, you will need certain items to manage without power or running water for 72 hours. You may already have some of these items, such as a flashlight, bottled water, non-perishable food, blankets, etc. The objective is to organize the material carefully so that you can find it quickly. The emergency kit should be easy to carry and all members of the family should know where it is. 

For more information about preparing an emergency plan or kit, visit the government of Canada's "Get Prepared" site (a reference follows at the bottom of the page. Some retailers offer pre-packaged emergency kits. The Canadian Red Cross, a non-profit organization, also sells emergency kits and items in its online boutique. 

Sound advice

• Prepare a list of your possessions, with pictures for evidence. Give a copy of your documents to a family member or place then in a safety-deposit box, if possible.

• Photocopy your ID and credit cards and give a copy to a family member.

• Make a list of your medication, keep a copy in your wallet and leave a copy with a family member.

• Prepare an emergency kit to take with you in case of an evacuation.

• Keep an up-to-date telephone list in your wallet.

  • Insurance company (indicate your agent's name)
  • Financial institution
  • School or day care centre (indicate the director's name)
  • Employer(s)
  • Family, friends or neighbourds
  • Pharmacy

Smoke alarm

Smoke alarms save lives! Remember that according to the by-law concerning the Service de sécurité incendie de Montréal, it is mandatory for every dwelling on the island of Montréal to have a functional smoke alarm installed on each floor.

Evacuation plan

Having an evacuation plan and staging a fire drill twice a year increases your chances of escaping safe and sound in a fire.