Diwali falls on November 8 this year, and Ajax Fire and Emergency Services (AFES) wants to remind residents how to stay safe during the festivities. In recognition of Diwali, fireworks are permitted in Ajax and may be discharged on November 7, November 8 and November 9.
AFES recognizes that fireworks are inherently dangerous. Residents that choose to set off fireworks must ensure they follow the Town’s Fireworks By-law.
Fireworks can only be discharged between the hours of 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. They are not permitted in a public park, on any public street or roadway at any time.
Every year, fireworks-related incidents result in injuries, fires, and property damage that could have been prevented through proper planning and safe handling practices.
QUOTE
“Fireworks are extremely dangerous and should be left to trained professionals. This recommendation is made to minimize the risk of fire and burn injuries that can result from the misuse of fireworks.” – Tania Pannunzio, Public Educator, Ajax Fire and Emergency Services
SAFETY TIPS
- Keep fireworks in a cool, dry, ventilated place and out of reach from children.
- Children under the age of 18 around fireworks should be supervised by an adult.
- Always ensure consent has been given by the property owner to discharge fireworks.
- Choose a wide, clear space, away from overhead obstacles to display fireworks.
- Fireworks should not be discharged in windy conditions.
- Carefully read the instructions on the packaging before discharging.
- Plan the order of firing before you begin.
- Use a good firing base, such as a pail, box or wheelbarrow, filled with sand.
- If a firework doesn’t have a standing base, then bury them halfway in the sand unless the label indicated otherwise.
- Set fireworks at a 10-degree angle, pointing away from spectators.
- Never light a firework in your hand or hold a lit firework.
- Light the fireworks carefully and always light the fuse at the tip.
- Water and portable fire extinguishers should be kept nearby for emergencies.
- Dispose of used fireworks, including debris, in a pail of water.
- Never try to re-light fireworks that don’t go off, and do not try to fix defective fireworks. Wait at least 30 minutes before approaching such fireworks.
- Keep sparklers away from children. Sparklers burn extremely hot and can ignite clothing, cause blindness and result in severe burns. As the sparkler wire remains hot for some minutes after burnout, it should be immediately soaked in water to avoid injury.
- Treat burns by running cool water over the affected area for three to five minutes and seek medical attention if needed.
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