Setting Off Your Own Fireworks in Burlington on Canada Day? Here's What You Need to Know

Canada Day is fast approaching and while a beautiful fireworks display is planned for Spencer Smith Park at 10 p.m., on July 1, some Burlington residents may want to set off their own.A lot of great information is available on the City of Burlington's website at www.burlington.ca/fireworks, but here are some things you need to know:Fireworks are permitted to be set off on Victoria Day and Canada Day (July 1), and the three days that precede each holiday — so it was May 17-20 for Victoria Day this year and will be June 28-July 1 for Canada Day. Fireworks cannot be discharged outside of these dates unless a permit has been issued from the Burlington Fire Department.Fireworks must also be used in accordance with the city's bylaw regulating the sale and use of fireworks, which states:

• The setting off of low-hazard fireworks is permitted on Victoria Day and Canada Day and the three days immediately before each of these holidays;
• No person under the age of (18) eighteen years shall set off any firework(s;.
• No person shall use, set off any firework(s) in such a place or in such a manner that it might create danger or constitute a nuisance to any person or property, or do or cause or allow any unsafe act or omission at the time and place for the setting off of any fireworks;
• No person shall set off any firework or fireworks in or into any building, doorway, automobile or other place where such setting off might create a danger or nuisance to any person or property; and
• Fireworks shall only be discharged on private property. No person shall set off any fireworks on any highway, street and not on public property, including city parks or school yards.

Here are some fireworks tipsThe safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to a public display hosted by trained and certified professionals. But, if you choose to have a family or an informal neighbourhood fireworks display, then follow these tips:

• Only adults should handle and set off fireworks;
• Only use safety-certified fireworks sold by a trusted source;
• Choose a clear, open space, away from buildings, overhead wires and tree branches;
• Wear glasses and gloves when handling fireworks;
• Keep a water hose and/or bucket of water close by;
• Light only one firework at a time;
• Never hold a lit firework in your hand;
• Attempting to re-light a "dud" or defective firework is dangerous, can quickly back-fire and result in severe burns; and
• After the fireworks display, keep children away from used fireworks in case they are still active.

When it comes to sparklers, which are popular with kids, they may be small in size, but they burn extremely hot. Even after burning out, sparklers can stay hot. So, consider placing sparklers and fireworks in a metal bucket of water or sand to cool down.If there is a fire or life-safety emergency due to fireworks that poses an immediate danger to someone's health or property, call 9-1-1 immediately. If you have a question or complaint related to fireworks, please head to the City's website (via the link provided above) for a list of which departments to contact.Be safe, have fun and a wonderful Canada Day!