Fireworks Safety Tips and Guidelines

Planning Fireworks for Canada Day?

Ahead of Canada Day, we want to remind residents of the importance of using fireworks safely and adhering to the Town’s Noise and Nuisance By-Law! Fireworks are explosives and extremely dangerous, before you plan a backyard display, please ensure you are keeping our community safe, quiet, and fire-smart by adhering to regulations and safety protocols:

Knowing the Town By-Laws

• Council Approval Required: As per the Town’s Noise and Nuisance By-Law, with the exception of July 1st (Canada Day) and December 31st (New Year’s Eve), formal approval from the council is required to set off fireworks.

• Consider Your Neighbours: Fireworks can be highly stressful for young children, individuals with sensory sensitivities, veterans, and pets. Give your neighbours a courtesy call ahead of time so they can keep loved ones and pets safe indoors.

Know the Safety Check-List

• Check the Wildfire Risk Daily: Always review the daily fire hazard index before lighting anything. If the index is rated High or greater, fireworks are strictly prohibited, view the Fire Hazard Rating here https://www.gov.nl.ca/fal/wildfiremanagement/fire-hazard-map/

• Age Restrictions: No one under the age of 18 is permitted to discharge fireworks.

• Setup Safely: Choose a wide, clear site away from structures. Use a good firing base (like a pail of sand or earth) and bury fireworks that lack a stable base halfway into the sand, angled 10 degrees away from spectators.

• Be Prepared: Always keep a fire extinguisher and a pail of water nearby. Soak all used fireworks and debris in water before discarding.

Know your Resources for a Safe Celebration

• For details on buying and handling consumer fireworks safely, review the Natural Resources Canada Fireworks Guide here, https://natural-resources.canada.ca/minerals-mining/explosives-fireworks-ammunition/fireworks-pyrotechnics/buying-consumer-fireworks-safely-legally
• In the event of an emergency, please dial 911. For after-hours assistance please call our after-hours line, 709-895-8000.

• Refer to the official flyer for quick safety tips, download the flyer to keep on hand:

Let’s work together to keep our community safe and enjoyable for everyone this holiday!