How to keep it safe lighting up the Oakville sky with fireworks this long weekend

The first long weekend of summer has arrived and Oakville residents are ready to celebrate and traditionally let off some – well fireworks.

The Victoria Day weekend is here and it’s time to get out the golf clubs and hit the course or, spend a fun three days of planned events with the family and then spark up the BBQ before capping it all with the kids gathered around to watch the fireworks light up the sky.

While everyone loves a spectacular fireworks show, safety comes first and there are steps you can take to make sure you and your family and friends are safe around fireworks.

It’s important to remember that in Oakville fireworks may not be discharged on municipal property, including parks and boulevards.

If you’re planning a fireworks display on private property this weekend, here are some safety tips you should follow:

• An adult must be responsible for lighting the fireworks. Fireworks and sparklers burn hot and can ignite clothing. Never give them to children.
• Read and follow directions on packaging.
• Keep water close by for extinguishing fires.
• Discharge fireworks in a clear, open area away from buildings, trees and dry grass.
• Light one firework at a time.
• Never light a firework in your hand.
• Never re-light a “dud” firework. Duds should be left for 15-30 minutes and then soaked in water.
• Keep onlookers at a safe distance and upwind from the area where fireworks are discharged.

You should also respect your neighbours and know that family fireworks are only permitted between dusk and 11 p.m. on the day of, day before or day after the following the Victoria Day, Canada Day, New Years Day holidays or any religious or cultural celebrations where fireworks are used to celebrate the religious or cultural event.

To report any fireworks concerns such as about their use on municipal property, are unsafe or are being discharged outside of the permitted time/dates, residents can go to the Report a Problem tool.