Burlington offers safety tips for home fireworks use

Burlington | Halton | Community | Fire | Latest News |

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Published June 27, 2022 at 4:54 pm

Canada Day is one of the few days Burlington residents are allowed to set off fireworks on private property.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display hosted by trained and certified professionals, such as Canada Day celebrations at Spencer Smith Park at 10 p.m. on Friday, July 1.

Here are some fireworks safety tips and reminders from the City.

Family (low-hazard) fireworks are permitted to be set off on Canada Day. Fireworks can be set off on private property (not in public parks) from sunset until 11 p.m. on Canada Day.

You have to be at least 18 years old to set off fireworks and they shouldn’t be discharged within 10 metres of buildings, structures, decks, vehicles, accessory building or other buildings.

“Please be responsible and respectful if you choose to do your own fireworks,” said Burlington Fire Chief Karen Roche.

“They pose a very real safety risk to anyone lighting them, watching them and surrounding properties. With safety and courtesy top of mind, we can all enjoy the holiday.”

If you choose to have a family or a home fireworks display, please follow these firework safety tips:

  • Only adults should handle and set off fireworks
  • Only use safety-certified fireworks sold by a trusted source
  • Choose a clear, open space, away from buildings, overhead wires and tree branches
  • Wear glasses and gloves when handling fireworks
  • Keep a water hose and/or bucket of water close by
  • Light only one firework at a time
  • Never hold a lit firework in your hand
  • Attempting to re-light a “dud” or defective firework is dangerous, it can quickly back-fire and result in severe burns
  • After the fireworks display, keep children away from used fireworks in case they are still active.
  • Place sparklers and fireworks in a metal bucket of water or sand to cool down.
  • Dispose of unused fireworks by completely submerging the fireworks in water and soak overnight and wrap the soaked fireworks in a plastic bag (so that they don’t dry out). Only then can you dispose of in your regular household garbage.

For more information on fireworks safety tips or if you have a fire safety related concern, visit the city website.

 

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