Safety in Canada
Canada consistently ranks among the safest countries globally, with low violent crime rates and stable communities.
Crime Overview
National statistics:
- Overall crime rate: 5,334 per 100,000
- Violent crime rate: 1,098 per 100,000
- Property crime rate: 3,245 per 100,000
For comparison:
- Canada's homicide rate is about 1/5 of the US rate
- Most common crimes are non-violent property offenses
Safest Cities (2026)
Top-rated by Crime Severity Index:
- LaSalle, Ontario - CSI 19.15 (74% below national average)
- Oak Bay, BC - CSI 29.81
- Wellington County, Ontario - CSI 28.03
- Burlington, Ontario - Low crime despite Greater Toronto Area
- Quebec City - CSI 42.1 (lowest major metro)
- Barrie, Ontario - CSI ~48
- Ottawa - Safe capital city
Regional Safety
Safest provinces:
- Ontario generally safest
- Atlantic provinces (PEI, Newfoundland) very low crime
- Quebec relatively safe
Higher crime areas:
- Parts of Manitoba and Saskatchewan have elevated rates
- Northern territories have highest rates (small populations, social challenges)
- Specific neighborhoods in any city may have higher crime
Urban Safety
Major cities:
- Downtown areas safe during day, more caution at night
- Homeless populations visible in some areas
- Property crime (car break-ins, bike theft) more common
Suburban areas:
- Generally very safe
- Low crime rates
- Family-friendly environments
Practical Safety Tips
- Lock your car - theft from vehicles is common
- Secure bikes well - bike theft is prevalent
- Be aware of surroundings at night in urban areas
- Research neighborhoods before renting
- Winter safety: slips on ice, frostbite risk, dress appropriately
Emergency Services
- 911: Police, fire, ambulance (all emergencies)
- Non-emergency police: 311 or local number
- Health Link: 811 (medical advice, most provinces)
- Poison Control: 1-800-268-9017
Natural Hazards
| Region | Risks |
|---|---|
| BC | Earthquakes, wildfires, atmospheric rivers |
| Prairies | Tornadoes, extreme cold |
| Ontario/Quebec | Extreme cold, ice storms |
| Atlantic | Hurricanes (rare), winter storms |
| North | Extreme cold, isolation |
Winter as a Safety Concern
For newcomers, winter is often more dangerous than crime:
- Hypothermia and frostbite risk
- Slipping on ice (injuries common)
- Driving in snow and ice
- Seasonal affective disorder (mental health)
Preparation:
- Quality winter clothing
- Winter driving skills
- Understanding wind chill advisories
Pro Tips
- •Canada is very safe - winter weather is a bigger daily concern
- •Research neighborhoods before renting
- •Lock your car and don't leave valuables visible
- •Winter preparation is essential - invest in good clothing
- •Most cities are walkable and safe at reasonable hours
Have questions about safety in Canada?