(Part 1 of this series ran in the February 11, 2026 edition of the Fort Frances Times)
Did you know?
Before departing Canada, it is essential to conduct thorough research into your destination’s current safety environment. Beyond regional stability, ensure your chosen accommodations meet rigorous safety standards and possess the necessary on-site security and safety systems.
Remembering the 78 lives lost in last year’s hotel tragedy
Last year, a tragic fire at Grand Kartal Hotel at the Kartalkaya ski resort in Türkiye killed 78 people and injured over 130 others. The fire was tragic, but it was extremely upsetting and heartbreaking to learn that many of the victims were children—so many years of potential life lost!
Early detection and rapid notification are the first lines of defenses against fire. Because guests are often asleep, functioning smoke alarms and fire alarm systems are essential for life safety. Combined with automatic sprinklers, these systems provide a lifesaving window of time for a safe evacuation—literally making the difference between life or death.
Unknown present: Where protection is trusted to exist
Many people assume that when they stay at a hotel or motel, the required safety systems are in place, but unfortunately, as well as tragically at times, that’s not always the case! People need to confirm that the hotel or motel that they are staying at has working smoke alarms in their room, an automatic fire sprinkler system, a fire alarm system, as well as carbon monoxide detection if the hotel/motel has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or an attached garage.
It may come as a surprise, but many new hotels and motels in Ontario are still built without automatic fire sprinkler systems because their size falls below current building code requirements. As highlighted in last week’s “Safety Tidbits,” these systems—working alongside smoke alarms and fire alarms systems—are invaluable. They contain fires quickly, provide occupants with more time to escape, and significantly reduce the risks faced by responding firefighters.
Travelling smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Many savvy travelers now pack a Canadian-certified battery-operated smoke alarm (or a dual smoke and carbon monoxide alarm) in their luggage. By using damage‑free wall hanging strips they can temporarily mount these devices on hotel or motel walls for an extra layer of personal safety. The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) does list requirements if you choose to bring a smoke alarm (smoke detector) and batteries with you in your carry-on baggage or checked baggage.
Final destination
Unfortunately, the majority of travellers will never inquire if the required lifesaving safety systems are in place at their hotel/motel they are travelling to. Tragically, complacency could lead to serious consequences, making your next trip your final destination!
Remember, taking the time to learn and practice injury prevention costs you nothing. Failing to do so, could lead to the unthinkable … the loss of your life and the lives of those you hold dear.
Safety—it starts with you.
