During the Victoria Day holiday, Ajax Fire and Emergency Services is asking residents to refrain from using fireworks or attending informal neighbourhood displays. Every year we see burn injuries and property damage as a result of the misuse of fireworks.
If you still choose to have a family fireworks display, please review and follow the Town’s Fireworks By-law. Fireworks are only permitted to be set off from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on May 17, 18 and 19.
Tips and reminders:
- Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
- Carefully read and follow the label directions on fireworks packaging.
- 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.
- Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from the area where fireworks are discharged.
- 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. For dud fireworks, it is best to wait 30 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water. Dispose of them in a metal container.
- Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard.
Quote
“While fireworks can be part of a celebration, they also carry significant risks when used improperly. Every year, preventable injuries and fires occur because safety precautions are overlooked. We encourage residents to attend professional fireworks displays and remember that protecting people, homes and property should always come first.” – Kaitlyn Moss, Public Educator, Ajax Fire and Emergency Services
Quick Facts
Ajax Fire and Emergency Services personnel have the following safety tips for residents who do choose to take part in informal fireworks displays:
- Keep fireworks in a cool, dry, ventilated place and out of reach from children.
- 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 indicates 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.
Learn More
- For additional information, visit ajax.ca/fire
- Town of Ajax Fireworks By-Law