As Chatham-Kent residents prepare to mark Canada Day this weekend, Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue has a word of warning.
Fire officials recommend leaving fireworks to the experts and attending a professional display, rather than setting off informal fireworks.
However, anyone who chooses to have a family or neighbourhood display needs to make sure they are purchasing fireworks from a trustworthy source, never leave fireworks in your car, and keep any explosives out of the reach of children.
“Although we always encourage attending professional fireworks displays, if you do discharge fireworks, please make sure they are away from any combustible materials such as buildings, trees, or dry grass and keep a hose or pail of water close by,” explains Community Safety Officer Whitney Burk. “We also want to advise parents to keep sparklers away from children. Hot sparklers can burn and cause serious injury to your child. Celebrate with glow sticks and other glow-in-the-dark items.”
Consumer fireworks can be set off 3 days before, on and 3 days after July 1st until 11pm and must be set off on private property, not municipal property (streets, parks, etc.)