Consider safety when using fireworks this Canada Day weekend: CYFS

Yorkregion.com
June 28, 2019
Teresa Latchford

Central York Fire Services is reminding residents to be safe with the use, handling and disposal of fireworks this Canada Day long weekend.

Fireworks are not to be ignited on public property, including parks and open fields or open spaces in the towns of Newmarket and Aurora. A permit is required through Central York Fire Services (CYFS) prior to the discharge or use of fireworks on town property.

Fireworks are only permitted on Canada Day and the day before and after the holiday for Newmarket residents, and on Canada Day and the day preceding the holiday in Aurora.

Those setting off fireworks may do so only on their own private property, or with written permission from the owner of such property and have an 18-metre frontage on the property.

Residents should purchase fireworks from a reliable vendor, have a water source handy and ensure there is always an adult present.

To minimize the risk of fire and burn injuries, CYFS recommends attending a public fireworks display hosted by the municipality or other responsible organizations.

The towns of Newmarket and Aurora offer firework displays in celebration of Canada Day, here are the events’ details:

• The Town of Newmarket will be hosting their Kanata Day fireworks display on July 1 at 10:10 p.m. at George Richardson Park (Bayview Parkway). For more information, visit newmarket.ca/kanata

• Visit the Town of Aurora for their Canada Day fireworks celebration at Lambert Willson Park (135 Industrial Pkwy. N.) on July 1, beginning at 10 p.m. Visit aurora.ca to learn more.

If you choose to have family fireworks or an informal neighbourhood display, keep these firework safety tips in mind:

• Purchase fireworks from a reliable source. Stay away from illegal explosives

• Carefully read and follow directions on the label of fireworks packaging

• Only use fireworks outdoors and be aware of surrounding dry vegetation

• Always have a water source such as a running garden hose or bucket of water handy

• Never experiment with or make your own fireworks

• Light only one firework at a time. Never set off fireworks during strong winds

• Never re-light a dud firework. Wait 15 to 20 minutes, then soak the dud in a bucket of water

• Never give fireworks to small children and always have an adult present

• Never throw or point fireworks at other people

• The handler should always wear eye protection and never have any part of their body over the firework

• Remember to be considerate of your neighbours and pets when using fireworks. Only use fireworks between the hours of dusk (approximately 9:30 to 11 p.m.), as the noise may be disturbing to those around you

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper disposal of fireworks.