June 26, 2014

Vaughan Fire Wants You to be Fireworks Safe this Canada Day

The Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to use caution on Canada Day when using fireworks. Residents are encouraged to attend public fireworks displays hosted by a responsible organization.

If you choose to have family fireworks, please check the City of Vaughan Fireworks By-law 142-2006.

Here are some important safety tips to follow if you are participating in a family fireworks display:

• Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
• Carefully read and follow the label directions on fireworks packaging.
• Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks.
• Discharge fireworks well away from combustible materials like buildings, forested areas, brush, leaf piles and dry grass.
• Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from where fireworks are discharged.
• Light only one firework at a time and only when they are on the ground. Never try to light a firework in your hand or re-light dud fireworks.
• For dud fireworks, it is best to wait 30 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water. Dispose of them in a metal container.
• Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard.
• Keep sparklers away from children. Sparklers burn extremely hot and can ignite clothing, cause blindness and result in severe burns. Sparkler wire remains hot for several minutes after burnout and it should immediately be soaked in water to avoid injury.
• If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes and seek medical attention, if necessary.

For more information on fire safety, contact our Fire Prevention Bureau at 905-832-8531 ext. 6346, weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or visit our website at www.vaughan.ca