Powell River Fire Rescue has issued safety tips for people considering using fireworks in conjunction with Halloween.
Fire chief Terry Peters said people can enjoy fireworks on Thursday, October 31, but City of Powell River has a fireworks bylaw in place that must be observed.
“Obviously, people can have fireworks on Halloween but we always encourage people, before they fire off any fireworks, that they understand the bylaw,” said Peters. “If you don’t and there are infractions, not only can it produce fines, but fireworks are a dangerous product and we don’t want anybody to be hurt.”
Peters also reminds residents who wish to have fires in conjunction with fireworks that they must have a special permit issued by the fire department.
“People who have fireworks sometimes have campfires but the reality is there is a burning bylaw as well, and you do need a permit,” said Peters. “If you are going to be using combustible wood products a permit is required, no matter what time of year.”
He added that people cannot be walking the streets lighting off fireworks.
Peters said while low-hazard fireworks are permissible, the word “hazard” is attached to it.
“Everyone knows it’s pretty easy to be harmed with some rogue fireworks operations,” said Peters. “Low hazard brings risk as well.”
Low-hazard fireworks are approved for use, on October 31, under a number of conditions.
The fireworks must be set between 4 and 11 pm, and those lighting them must be 18 years of age or older. Fireworks can be used on private property only with the owner’s consent.
Powell River Fire Rescue recommends that fireworks be purchased from reliable sources, that the instructions of the fireworks are read, and that a wide, clear site away from all obstacles is chosen for lighting the fireworks.
It is important to have a bucket of water handy, for disposal of used fireworks. A good firing base should be prepared, such as a pail filled with earth or sand.
On Halloween, fireworks should not be set off in windy conditions and spectators should be kept at a safe distance.
Those lighting fireworks should wear eye protection and never place any part of their bodies over the fireworks when lighting the fuse.
Fireworks should not be lit or held in one’s hand unless the manufacturer’s instructions indicate they are designed to be handheld.
Fireworks should be carefully lit, always lighting the fuse at the tip. Fireworks should not be pointed at anyone or anything.
Never shoot fireworks in a metal or glass container. Fireworks that do not go off should not be relit. It is advised to wait 15 to 20 minutes, then soak the unexpended fireworks in a bucket of water. All spent fireworks should be soaked before disposal.
For City of Powell River’s bylaw on regulation of fireworks, go to powellriver.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/2?preview=562.
