London fire officials are urging residents to stay safe this coming Canada Day weekend and leave the fireworks to professionals.
Public events require licensing and for qualified technicians to set off fireworks displays.
Officials say with grass, brush and trees all extremely dry, the chance for an accident caused by consumer fireworks is higher than usual.
Tips for those who insist on setting off their own fireworks:
- Purchase your fireworks from a reliable source that sells products meeting safety
standards.
- Stay away from illegal explosives or firecrackers.
- Set up outdoors in a clear, open space away from structures and any combustibles.
- Light fireworks on a hard, flat, and level surface to ensure stability.
- Check the wind direction and make sure the wind is blowing away from spectators.
- Have a bucket of sand, supply of water and a working fire extinguisher on hand.
- Only adults (18 years or over) should handle fireworks. If you are impaired (alcohol or drugs) do not handle fireworks.
- Light only one firework item at a time.
- Wear protective eye glasses and gloves. Light at arm’s length and then stand a safe distance away.
- Never attempt to re-light a “dud” or defective firework.
- Sparklers in the hands of children can cause severe burns.
- Respect your neighbours. Only discharge fireworks between dusk and 11 PM.
- The use of sky lanterns is prohibited by the Ontario Fire Code.
The City of London’s Fireworks Bylaw states, “No person shall discharge any consumer fireworks in or on or into any park, highway, street, lane, square or other public place, unless under a display fireworks permit to do so issued by the Fire Chief.”
The bylaw allows the discharge of fireworks on the Victoria and Canada Day holidays only.
Those selling fireworks should check with City Hall to ensure they have the correct business license to sell fireworks.
Officials say there will be a zero tolerance approach to those doing so without a business license. The contact number for licensing information is 519-930-3515.
