Fireworks permits and safety tips

Every year - thousands of fires are started - and thousands of people are injured - by fireworks. Children suffer the most from fireworks-related injuries, which usually occur to the eyes, head and/or hands.

To ensure a fun but safe fireworks display, it is important that you obtain a family fireworks permit, and then follow the regulations and simple safety procedures outlined below.

When can you apply for a fireworks permit?

A fireworks permit allows you to purchase and possess family fireworks between October 25th and October 31st, and to discharge your fireworks on October 31st.

A link to order your fireworks permit online will be available here in early October.

Buying your fireworks

Once you have completed the application and your permit is issued, you can purchase your fireworks:

Print off your permit
Make sure you bring your printed permit, plus two pieces of valid ID, to the fireworks vendor
Show your permit and your ID to the vendor
Keep the permit with you when you set off your fireworks

Things to remember when buying your fireworks

Only buy fireworks from retailers who have a permit to sell fireworks
Only buy fireworks between October 25 and October 31
Only buy fireworks that are authorized for use in Canada
Do not try to make your own fireworks! It's illegal and extremely dangerous

Rules for setting off your fireworks

Fireworks can ONLY be set off:

On October 31
By the permit holder
On private property, with the property owner's written permission

Your permit does not allow you to set off fire crackers: these require a different permit

Safety tips for using fireworks with your family

Transporting and storing your fireworks

Only transport fireworks in the trunk of your vehicle.
If you don't have a trunk (e.g., van or pick-up truck), transport fireworks in a non-sparking container with a lid.
Do not smoke while loading, transporting or unloading fireworks.
Always store fireworks in a, cool, dry place
Keep fireworks away from children.
Check the instructions for special handling directions.
Do not drop fireworks.
Do not carry fireworks in your pockets.
Never smoke while handling fireworks.

Setting up your fireworks

Do:

Clear a large open area away from buildings, vehicles, overhead obstructions, and dry brush or grass
- For aerial fireworks, allow a minimum of 30 m by 30 m
- For ground-based fireworks (such as fountains and mines) allow a minimum of 20 m by 20 m
Keep all spectators out of this area
Check wind direction and wind speed; fireworks should be lit with the wind blowing away from spectators.
Keep a charged hose or bucket of water close by in case of a malfunction or fire.
Carefully read all the instructions for each firework item ahead of time.
Set fireworks on an appropriate surface
- For aerial fireworks, bury the device up to its mid-point in a large pail or box filled with earth or sand, or in the ground.
- For ground-based fireworks (such as fountains and mines), set the fireworks on on a hard, flat, level. Lay down wood or plywood over grass.

Do not:

Do not use fireworks indoors; they are designed for outdoor use only.

Do not use fireworks in streets, lanes, or other public places.
Do not set off aerial fireworks in strong winds.
Do not let children handle fireworks. Even sparklers burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing.

Lighting your fireworks

Do:

Stand well back when the fireworks have been lit.
Wear only non-flammable clothing and/or costumes when igniting fireworks. cotton and other natural fibres are non-flammable. Never wear synthetic fibres (such as nylon or polyester) when firing.
Protect your eyes with safety glasses or safety goggles. Regular glasses or sunglasses may actually contribute to an injury, or may make an injury worse.
During the show, store the unused fireworks away from the firing area and keep them covered to prevent stray sparks from prematurely setting them off.

Do not:

Never hold fireworks in your hand.
Never point or throw fireworks at people, animals, or property.
Never let children handle, play with, or set off fireworks under any circumstances.
Never put any part of your body or head over fireworks
Never insert fireworks into containers (for example, pipes)

Cleaning up your fireworks

Never pick up spent fireworks until your are absolutely sure they are completely out - the tip of a sparkler can get as hot as 1200 degrees Fahrenheit! Other fireworks can get just as hot.
Wait 30 minutes after the display has finished. Check the firing area for duds, clean up all debris, and check it again the next morning.
Never attempt to re-light fireworks that have misfired (duds). Wait 30 minutes and then place them in a bucket of water.