Canadian Building codes require fire-stopping systems as they ensure the effectiveness of fire separations. Fire separations are a specific type of gap included in a building to stop the spread of flames in the case of a fire. In essence, fire-stopping systems are techniques designed to ensure fire separations are as effective as possible should there be a blaze.
Typical examples of fire-stopping systems used in Canada today include blank openings, wall-ceiling joints, and service penetrations. However, fire-stopping systems come in all types and are designed based on their usage.
Common in modern fire-stopping systems is intumescent (increases in dentistry and volume) caulking and collars. They get designed to expand when heated and provide additional insulation against the heat of a fire.