CENTRE WELLINGTON – Many people will be celebrating the long weekend with some home fireworks and Centre Wellington’s deputy fire chief has some tips to use them safely.
One of the big things Deputy Chief Jason Benn suggests only buying fireworks in appropriate packaging.
“When you’re buying them, make sure they are in proper packaging, that’s a big thing. And they are coming from a reputable dealer,” said Benn. “Sometimes you see fireworks in brown paper bags and that’s not suggested because it could be [counterfeit] and not act as intended.”
Benn says people should also be mindful of the wind.
“The wind is a big factor in setting off fireworks,” explained Benn. “Especially when they have proper shows, they make sure that the wind is at the optimal angle and everyone would be safe within the fallout zone.”
According to the township’s Sale and Discharge of Fireworks Bylaw, “No person shall discharge any fireworks, squibs, fireballs, or firecrackers within the limits of the Township of Centre Wellington at any time during the whole of the year, except in conjunction with the Victoria Day and Canada Day celebrations.”
Some other tips:
- Keep a hose, bucket of water or sand nearby.
- Ensure any dud fireworks are soaked for at least two hours, preferably overnight, before disposal.
- Consider bubbles instead of sparklers for children.
- Stay sober while lighting fireworks.
- Never light a firework near you body.
