Safety Overview
Canada is consistently ranked among the world's safest countries. For Americans, the adjustment is typically straightforwardâsimilar cultural norms, familiar urban environments, and a shared language (outside Quebec).
Canada has the lowest US travel advisory level, reflecting the generally safe environment. This is the same level as countries like Iceland, Norway, and Luxembourg.
Crime Statistics Comparison
Canada's crime rates are generally lower than the United States, particularly for violent crime.
| Crime Type | Canada (per 100K) | US (per 100K) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homicide | 2.0 | 6.5 | -69% |
| Assault | 440 | 280 | +57%* |
| Robbery | 55 | 100 | -45% |
| Vehicle Theft | 290 | 280 | Similar |
| Burglary | 380 | 270 | +41% |
*Note: Canada has broader assault definitions, affecting direct comparison. Serious violent assault rates are lower.
Canada has approximately 2 gun deaths per 100,000 people compared to 12 per 100,000 in the US. Mass shooting events are rare. Gun ownership requires licensing, registration, and background checks.
Regional Considerations
Like the US, crime rates vary significantly by city and neighborhood.
Major Cities Safety
| City | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | Very Safe | Low crime for city size; avoid Downtown East Side at night |
| Vancouver | Safe | Property crime higher; visible homelessness in DTES |
| Montreal | Very Safe | Generally safe; standard urban precautions |
| Calgary | Safe | Some downtown issues; overall safe |
| Ottawa | Very Safe | Capital city, very safe, strong police presence |
| Edmonton | Moderate | Higher property crime; some areas to avoid |
| Winnipeg | Moderate | Higher crime rates than other major cities |
Areas With Higher Crime
- Vancouver DTES: Downtown Eastside has visible drug use and homelessness
- Some Prairie cities: Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon have higher rates
- Northern communities: Some remote areas have elevated rates
- Certain Toronto neighborhoods: Jane & Finch, parts of Scarborough (still safer than many US cities)
Common Crimes Affecting Expats
Property Crime
- Vehicle theft: Rising issue, especially for SUVs and trucks (export theft rings)
- Bicycle theft: Common in urban areas, especially Vancouver and Toronto
- Package theft: Similar to US urban areas
- Break and enter: Less common than US but still occurs
Scams
- CRA scams: Fake Canada Revenue Agency calls demanding payment
- Immigration scams: Fake IRCC communications
- Rental scams: Fake listings, especially in tight markets like Toronto/Vancouver
- Romance/investment scams: Similar to US
Canada has seen a significant increase in vehicle theft, particularly for popular SUVs and trucks destined for export. Use anti-theft devices, park in well-lit areas, and consider a steering wheel lock or tracking device. Some insurers now require additional anti-theft measures.
Winter Safety
For Americans from warmer states, Canadian winters present real safety considerations beyond just discomfort.
Cold Weather Risks
- Frostbite: Can occur in minutes at extreme temperatures
- Hypothermia: Risk if stranded outdoors or in broken-down vehicle
- Falls: Ice-related injuries are common
- Carbon monoxide: Risk from improper heating, warming vehicles in garages
Winter Driving
- Winter tires: Required by law in Quebec; highly recommended everywhere
- Emergency kit: Blanket, flashlight, shovel, sand/kitty litter, jumper cables
- Black ice: Invisible and extremely dangerous
- Visibility: Shorter days, snow reduces visibility dramatically
Environment Canada issues warnings when wind chill makes temperatures feel like -40°C or colder. Exposed skin can develop frostbite in minutes. Stay indoors when possible, cover all exposed skin, and limit outdoor time.
Winter Temperature Ranges
| City | Average January Low | Extreme Cold Days/Year |
|---|---|---|
| Vancouver | 1°C (34°F) | Rare |
| Toronto | -7°C (19°F) | 10-20 |
| Montreal | -13°C (9°F) | 20-30 |
| Calgary | -13°C (9°F) | 15-25 |
| Winnipeg | -21°C (-6°F) | 40-50 |
| Edmonton | -14°C (7°F) | 25-35 |
Natural Hazards
By Region
- British Columbia: Earthquakes (seismic zone), wildfires, flooding
- Prairies: Tornadoes (less than US but occur), severe thunderstorms, blizzards
- Ontario/Quebec: Ice storms, flooding, occasional tornadoes
- Atlantic: Hurricanes (remnants), nor'easters, flooding
Wildlife
- Bears: Black bears common, grizzlies in western Canada
- Moose: Vehicle collisions are serious; especially dangerous at night
- Coyotes: Urban/suburban areas; small pet risk
- Cougars: British Columbia; attacks rare but occur
Hitting a moose is often fatal for vehicle occupants due to their heightâthe body comes through the windshield. Drive carefully at dawn/dusk in rural areas, especially in Atlantic Canada, Northern Ontario, and across the Prairies.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | 911 | Works nationwide |
| Poison Control | Varies by province | Save your province's number |
| Crime Stoppers | 1-800-222-8477 | Anonymous tips |
| Road Conditions | 511 | Most provinces |
US Embassy & Consulates
| Location | Phone |
|---|---|
| Ottawa (Embassy) | +1 613-688-5335 |
| Toronto | +1 416-595-1700 |
| Vancouver | +1 604-685-4311 |
| Calgary | +1 403-266-8962 |
| Montreal | +1 514-398-9695 |
| Quebec City | +1 418-692-2095 |
| Halifax | +1 902-429-2480 |
STEP Enrollment
Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to:
- Receive security alerts from the Embassy
- Make it easier for Embassy to contact you in emergency
- Help family reach you in emergencies
Practical Safety Tips
Urban Safety
- Standard urban awareness appliesâsame as any US city
- Transit systems are generally safe but stay alert late night
- Avoid displaying expensive items unnecessarily
- Be cautious in areas with visible drug activity
Driving Safety
- Right-hand traffic, same as US
- Speed limits in km/h (100 km/h â 62 mph on highways)
- Stricter DUI laws than most US states (0.08% federal, 0.05% administrative)
- Winter tires strongly recommended October-April
- Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn/dusk
Personal Safety
- Healthcare emergencies: Go to hospital, sort out billing later
- Lock vehicles even in "safe" areasâvehicle theft is opportunistic
- Keep identification and health card accessible
- Know your blood type and any allergies in English/French