• The long weekend is fast approaching and that often mean fireworks are part of the festivities. Let’s be safe out there!

  Fireworks Safety Tips
  Source: Canada Safety Council

• Setting up:
• • Read the instructions. This is worth repeating: read the instructions, cautions and warnings on each firework item.
  • Store unused units in a closed box away from the unit being lit and do not smoke around them.
  • Set up outdoors in a clear, open space. Light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface to insure stability.
  • Check the wind and have the wind blowing away from the spectators.
  • Spectators should be at least the safety distance written on the fireworks label away from the display, keeping special supervision on children.
  •  Have a bucket of sand, supply of water and a working fire extinguisher on hand.
• Fireworks show:
• • Only adults (18 years or over) should handle the fireworks. If you are impaired (alcohol or drugs) do not handle them.
  • Light only one item at a time.
  • Wear protective eye glasses and gloves. Light at arm’s length and then stand back.
  •  Never lean over the fireworks and keep hair and clothes away from fire sources.
  • Never attempt to re-light a “dud” or defective unit.
  • Never hold a lighted firework item in your hand.
  Proper Disposal of Fireworks:
  • Sparklers should be immersed in a bucket of sand to cool down after burning out, as they remain very hot for some time.
  •  Fireworks should be disposed of safely and properly
  • Clean up after use!

  Fireworks and pets
  Source: Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

• Keep animals indoors during firework displays, making sure to close windows and doors. Startled animals may seek a place to hide and if they manage to get outside, it can be easy to lose them. If you need to take your dog outside, keep them leashed at all times to prevent them from bolting and becoming lost.

  Be mindful of wildlife
  Source: Canadian National Fireworks Association
  

  Good practice for keeping wildlife in mind before using consumer fireworks means:

• Remove birdfeeders and bird baths prior to any fireworks use to discourage wildlife from coming to the area.
• Waiting until it is dark to use fireworks.
• Do not use fireworks near nesting areas or known areas where animal hide.
• Clean up after use!

Further reading:

Crowd-pleasing fireworks are not so pleasing to the planet

What are the impacts of fireworks?

Protecting Ontario's Lakes from fireworks