Municipal Affairs
June 30, 2016
Public Advisory: Know Fireworks Safety Guidelines this Canada Day
During the Canada Day celebrations, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians may wish to use fireworks. Fireworks are powerful devices, which is why their sale and purchase is federally regulated. To help ensure a safe fireworks display, Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador reminds residents to use fireworks responsibly and follow these safety tips:
- Do not use fireworks in windy conditions;
- Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area where their use is not prohibited;
- Never try to light a firework in your hand or hold a lit firework;
- Ensure fireworks do not impact buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions, or dry brush/grass;
- Read all instructions on the fireworks and plan the order of firing before you begin;
- Spectators, especially children, must be at least 20 metres away from the fireworks;
- For fireworks that do not have a base, bury them halfway in a fire-resistant container of earth or sand, unless the label on the firework indicates otherwise. Set them at a 10-degree angle, pointing away from spectators;
- Wait 30 minutes before approaching a firework that did not go off. Never try to relight a firework that did not go off and never try to fix a defective firework;
- To help eliminate the fire risk, soak used fireworks in water. Never store used fireworks inside a building;
- Wear eye protection and non-flammable clothing when lighting fireworks; and
- Handle fireworks with caution and never let children play with or light them.
For more information about fireworks safety, visit the Natural Resources Canada website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/explosives/fireworks/9883.
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Media contact:
Heather May
Communications Director Department of Municipal Affairs 709-729-1983, 697-5061 heathermay@gov.nl.ca |
2016 06 30 8:25 a.m.