Why Cottage Fire Safety Matters More Than Ever This Holiday Season
Cottage ownership continues to surge in Canada, and winter is one of the highest-risk seasons for cottage fires.
Quick Cottage Ownership Stats (Canada 2025):
- Nearly 1 in 10 Canadian households own a cottage or recreational property (RE/MAX, Global News).
- 34% consider cottages a long-term investment (RE/MAX Cottage Trends Report).
- Popular cottage regions this year include Muskoka, Kawarthas, Collingwood/Blue Mountain, Wasaga, Niagara, Bancroft, Bruce Peninsula, Georgian Bay, Canmore & Sylvan Lake (AB).
- Demand continues to rise as Canadians choose “staycations,” remote work, and multi-family shared investments.
But with increased use also comes increased risk, especially during the holidays. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC):
“Fire-related claims spike between December and February , and cottages/seasonal homes make up a disproportionate share.”
Why? Because cottages often sit vacant, poorly monitored, and heated inconsistently, making them more vulnerable to fire, electrical issues, chimney hazards, and holiday decoration mishaps.
The good news:
Winter cottage fires are highly preventable with simple planning, ongoing maintenance, and the right insurance coverage.
Let’s break down what cottage owners in Ontario and Alberta should know.
Top Holiday Fire Safety Tips for Your Cottage
Whether your cottage is a winter escape or sits vacant until spring, these steps help keep your property safe, secure, and insured.
1) Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
This is your first line of defense.
- ✔ Test alarms monthly
- ✔ Replace batteries
- ✔ Ensure alarms are installed on every level
- ✔ Replace devices older than 10 years
Seasonal homes are especially at risk for unnoticed smoke or CO buildup — early detection saves lives.
2) Inspect & Maintain Fire Extinguishers
Most cottage fires start small and can be stopped, if an extinguisher is within reach.
- ✔ Ensure pressure gauge sits in the green zone
- ✔ Keep extinguishers on each floor
- ✔ Know how to use them (PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep)
3) Practice Safe Holiday Light Usage
Holiday lights = festive + fire risk.
- ✔ Inspect cords for frays
- ✔ Replace broken bulbs
- ✔ Use indoor/outdoor rated lights appropriately
- ✔ Avoid outlet overload
- ✔ Choose LED lights (cooler & safer)
Never leave lights on overnight or while away from the property.
4) Keep Your Christmas Tree Hydrated
A dry tree can ignite in under 10 seconds.
- ✔ Buy your live tree closer to the holidays
- ✔ Water daily
- ✔ Keep away from heat sources
- ✔ Turn off lights when unattended
Artificial tree? Make sure it's labeled “fire-resistant.”
5) Prioritize Fireplace & Wood Stove Safety
Fireplaces cause thousands of cottage-related fires each winter.
- ✔ Hire a certified chimney sweep annually
- ✔ Clear flammable items (wrapping paper, décor, stockings)
- ✔ Use a fire screen
- ✔ Never leave the fireplace unattended
- ✔ Fully extinguish embers before bed
If you installed a wood stove recently, don’t forget inform your broker as it affects your insurance eligibility.
6) Protect Your Heating System
Cottages often use:
- Electric baseboards
- Propane heaters
- Space heaters
- Fireplaces
- Wood stoves
- ✔ Have your furnace/boiler inspected
- ✔ Use space heaters safely (3-ft rule)
- ✔ Avoid leaving supplemental heat running unattended
7) Manage Outdoor & Electrical Hazards
- ✔ Clear gutters & rooflines
- ✔ Dispose of ashes in a metal container
- ✔ Trim branches touching the roof
- ✔ Check outdoor extension cords
- ✔ Keep pathways free of ice & snow
Why Coverage Gaps Are a Big Problem in Winter
Many cottage owners are unaware that certain fire or water-related losses may not be covered if:
- Heat was turned off
- Property was left unattended too long
- Wood stove was unreported
- Cottage was rented (Airbnb) without a rental endorsement
- Renovations were not disclosed
Did you know? A single frozen-pipe or fire damage claim can cost $10,000–$75,000+, depending on structural damage and clean-up needs (IBC 2024). Avoid surprises. Review your coverage before guests arrive and fireplaces are lit.
Why Are More Canadians Investing in Cottages?
Beyond lifestyle, cottages have become a stable investment because:
- Multi-generational ownership is rising
- Strong demand in Ontario & Alberta’s recreational markets
- Remote work enables flexible living
- Shared family investments reduce cost
- Cottages offer rental income potential
With higher demand comes increasing property values, but also higher insurance risk if the property isn’t winter-ready.
Final Thought
The holidays should be warm, safe, and peaceful — not stressful.
By taking a few simple fire-safety steps and reviewing your cottage insurance before winter hits, you can protect your investment and the people you love.
At My Insurance Broker, we help Ontario & Alberta cottage owners stay protected year-round from fire safety to winter prep to investment coverage.
Call us now: 1-855-482-5001
Email us: info@myinsurancebroker.comFor a free cottage insurance review before the holidays.