A close-up of a vintage red fire alarm mounted on a textured brick wall. The alarm features the word 'FIRE' in large, bold white letters, with instructions below that read 'PUSH IN THEN PULL DOWN.' The surrounding brick wall is painted in a matching red shade, giving the image a monochromatic and intense appearance.

Top 5 Fire Safety Tips for Your Renovation

Renovations are exciting—you’re updating your space, improving comfort, maybe even adding value. But they also bring new fire risks that are easy to overlook. Whether you’re doing a full remodel or refreshing a single room, fire safety should be part of the plan.

Here are five practical fire safety tips every homeowner should keep in mind before, during, and after renovation projects.

1. Install or Update Smoke Alarms

Before any walls get closed up or ceilings get painted, make sure smoke alarms are installed where they need to be—and that they actually work. Building codes require alarms near bedrooms and on every floor, but it’s smart to add one near the kitchen and garage too.

If you’re already rewiring or patching drywall, take the opportunity to upgrade to interconnected or smart smoke alarms. These can alert you through your phone and talk to other safety devices like carbon monoxide detectors.

2. Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible

It’s one of the simplest upgrades you can make—yet many homes either don’t have a fire extinguisher or don’t know where it is. During renovations, place a multipurpose ABC extinguisher in the kitchen, basement, garage, or anywhere heat or wiring is being added or moved.

If you’re upgrading cabinetry, closets, or utility spaces, build in a dedicated spot to store one so it’s both accessible and out of the way. And yes—check the expiration date!

3. Store Flammable Materials Safely

Paint cans, solvents, adhesives, and finishing products are part of nearly every renovation. But they’re also flammable. Make sure they’re stored in a cool, ventilated space away from direct sunlight, space heaters, or any ignition sources.

A metal cabinet in the garage or basement works well. And don’t forget to dispose of oily rags properly—left in a pile, they can spontaneously combust. No joke.

An illustration of a piece of paper titled 'Safety Checklist' placed on a wooden table. The checklist includes four items: 'Check smoke alarms,' 'Practice evacuation drill,' 'Inspect fire extinguisher,' and 'Keep exits clear.' The first two items are marked with red checkmarks, while the last two are left unchecked. The paper has a slightly tilted, casual appearance, with shadows cast on the table to give a sense of depth.

4. Practice Safe Cooking Habits

Renovating your kitchen? Don’t let the temporary mess distract you from everyday safety. Most home fires start here. Keep stovetops clear of flammable items like dish towels, packaging, or papers, and never leave food unattended on the burner.

If you’re cooking with temporary equipment during reno chaos, make sure it’s on a stable surface, not near curtains, and unplugged when not in use. Renovations are disruptive—this is when accidents tend to happen.

5. Plan Your Escape Routes

You’re already rethinking the flow of your home. Take the opportunity to make sure there’s a clear, safe way out of every major room. If you’re adding walls, floors, or finishing a basement, ensure exits are easily reachable and unobstructed.

In Quebec, where winters can complicate emergency exits, it’s especially important to consider snow, ice, and blocked doors. Teach your family two ways out of every space and establish a safe meeting spot.

Final Thought: Make Fire Safety Part of the Design

You don’t need to obsess over fire risk—but you should include it in the same thoughtful way you choose lighting or paint. Fire safety tools don’t have to be ugly or intrusive—they just need to be there, and they need to work.

A young child wearing white headphones, reclining comfortably on a sofa with a cozy blanket. The child is facing away from the camera, looking towards a fireplace in the background. The warm, softly lit scene suggests relaxation and comfort in a home environment, with the glow of the fire adding to the cozy atmosphere.

Next Steps

Want more ideas for a safer home? Explore renovation safety tips, or check out our guides on CO detectors and fire extinguisher placement to round out your smart home upgrade.