With the Victoria Day weekend on the horizon, Norfolk County is reminding all residents to celebrate safely.
Warm weather holidays mean fireworks. County staff encourage any residents wishing to have family fireworks, or an informal neighbourhood display, to follow these safety tips:
- Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
- Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks.
- Discharge fireworks well away from combustible materials like buildings, trees, and dry grass.
- Light only one firework at a time and only when they are on the ground. Never try to light a firework in your hand or re-light dud fireworks.
- Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard.
- Keep sparklers away from children.
- If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes and seek medical attention, if necessary.
In addition to firework safety, residents are reminded of the Norfolk County Fireworks Regulating By-Law. It includes the following rules:
- Fireworks are permitted two days prior, and up to 1 day after, each of the following holidays: New Year’s Eve, Victoria Day Monday, Canada Day, US Independence Day, Civic Holiday Monday, Labour Day Monday.
- Fireworks may only be discharged up to 11 p.m.
- Fireworks are not permitted to be discharged on municipal property or roadways.
- The user of the fireworks must own the property they are discharging on or have permission from the property owner.
“Happy Victoria Day Norfolk County,” said Mayor Amy Martin. “We want all members of the community to create memories and avoid accidents by following these safety recommendations.”
For more safety tips and information, visit norfolkcounty.ca/fireworks.
