Diwali is coming up and residents are being reminded to be safe with their use of fireworks.
The Town of Halton Hills says that Diwali is one of five special days in the year when ‘family fireworks’ are allowed to be lit on private properties without a permit in the municipality. This year, residents wishing to discharge fireworks in celebration of Diwali are asked to do so on Friday, November 1st, a date that aligns with other municipalities. As a reminder, fireworks are not to be discharged on any Town properties (i.e. parks, roads, parking lots). Under the by-law, fireworks are permitted on Victoria Day, Canada Day, Lunar New Year, Diwali and New Year’s Eve. Should residents wish to discharge fireworks outside these days, a permit is required from the fire department.
“Enjoy this special time of festivity and gathering,” says Halton Hills Fire Prevention Officer, Jason Blackmere. “But please, take care when using fireworks.”
Safe handling of fireworks includes:
- Following manufacturer directions for using fireworks.
- Ensuring only adults discharge fireworks and only in good weather.
- Discharging away from people and combustible materials (i.e. trees, dry grass)
- Keeping a pail of water or water hose close by.
- Cleaning up any debris from fireworks and checking for embers.
- Ensure fireworks are soaked then set away from combustibles after discharging.
Learn more about fireworks safety here.
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