Canada Day is a great time to bring friends and family together to celebrate our great country’s birthday – to make great memories, indulge in BBQ, and close out the night with fireworks. If you plan on hosting a fireworks show, check with your local fire department about Fireworks By-laws. It’s also a good idea to map out the area where you plan to use the fireworks. Make sure there is enough room for spectator safety and far away from combustible materials.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Rule #1 – You’re likely not a pyrotechnician. So read all instruction labels entirely (perhaps twice for good measure).
- Appoint a designated responsible person to be in charge of the show.
- Only an adult who is aware of all the risks should discharge fireworks.
- Discharging fireworks over a lake/body of water, or having a water supply (garden hose) within reaching distance is ideal.
- Only discharge fireworks when far away from other peoples property, buildings, and flammable areas such as dry grass or trees.
- Keep onlookers, especially children, far away from the discharge area.
- Never try to light multiple fireworks at the same time, only one at a time.
- Absolutely never light a firework in your hand.
- Never ever try to light dud fireworks. They should be soaked in a bucket of water for 30 minutes and then disposed of in a metal container.
- Don’t discharge fireworks on a windy day. Swirling winds will send fireworks in the wrong direction.
- Follow the instructions and recommended age for sparklers. If children are using sparklers, make sure a responsible adult is supervising. After the sparkler burns out the wire is still hot, so it’s a good idea to soak it in cold water.
Wishing you a safe summer, filled with great memories, and fireworks fun!
Did you know there are only a few statutory holidays where you can use fireworks on private property?
In Toronto, Victoria Day and Canada Day are the only holidays where you can use fireworks on private property without a permit. Check your local Fireworks By-law for details and stay safe.