Fireworks Safety
Posted May 20, 2012 07:14:39 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
It’s the Victoria Day long weekend and setting off your own fireworks is a tradition for many Canadian families.
The Kitchener Fire Department has some tips to ensure you have a fun and safe experience. It also says there are some rules and regulations you must follow.
First off, it says, for this long weekend, they can only be set off tonight, tomorrow night and Tuesday night.
Among the restrictions: they can not be set off on any city street or highway, in any woodlot, public trail, or ballpark, City of Kitchener park, within 25 feet of any structure or in areas containing dead undergrowth or trees.
You must be at least 18 to set off fireworks.
Firecrackers, such as cherry bombs and torpedoes, are not considered legal fireworks, so it is a no-no to buy, sell or set them off. Kitchener’s Director of Enforcement, Shayne Turner says “Fireworks are fun, but they can be dangerous too. “These regulations are in place to keep everyone safe; we can’t stress their importance enough.”
Here is the complete list of rules, regulations and safety tips, courtesy of the Kitchener Fire Department:
Residents should be aware that, under the Code, fireworks shall not be set off:
-On any city street or highway;
-In any woodlot, public trail, or ballpark;
-In any parkland under the jurisdiction of the City of Kitchener without first having obtained a permit to do so;
-Within 25 feet of any building or structure;
-In areas containing dead undergrowth or trees.
Firecrackers – which are different than fireworks and include items like cherry bombs and torpedoes – cannot be sold or set off anywhere in Kitchener.
When setting off fireworks, always:
-Use fireworks outdoors only;
-Choose a clear, open area;
-Check wind direction and speed;
-Have an adult present;
-Have water handy;
-Use eye protection and wear non-flammable clothing;
-Read and follow label directions;
-Keep spectators at least 20 metres from launch area;
-Wait 30 minutes after display has ended and dispose of fireworks properly (soak in water then dispose in trash bin).
Never:
-Experiment with homemade own fireworks;
-Give fireworks to small children;
-Light more than one firework at a time, or relight “duds;”
-Throw or point fireworks at other people;
-Carry fireworks in your pocket;
-Shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
