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OPP Urges Fireworks Safety During Long Weekend

For anyone planning on setting off some fireworks this long weekend, local law enforcers have a few safety reminders.

They say that injuries from fireworks sold to consumers usually occur as the result of improper handling and a disregard for safety.

The following safety tips have been compiled by the Ontario Provincial Police.

  • Follow the laws and regulations regarding the use of fireworks.
  • Purchase your fireworks from a reliable source that sells products meeting safety standards.
  • Stay away from illegal explosives or firecrackers and do not improvise and make your own fireworks.
  • Always read the Instructions, cautions and warnings on each firework item.
  • Store unused fireworks in a closed box away from the firework being lit and do not smoke around the fireworks.
  • Set up outdoors in a clear, open space. Light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface.
  • Check the wind and have the wind blowing away from spectators.
  • Spectators should be at least the safety distance written on the fireworks label away from the display, keeping constant supervision on children.
  • Have a bucket of sand, supply of water and a working fire extinguisher on hand.
  • Only adults should handle the fireworks. If you are impaired by alcohol or drugs do not handle the fireworks.
  • Light only one firework item at a time.
  • Wear protective eye glasses and gloves. Light at arm’s length and then stand back.
  • Never lean over the fireworks and keep hair and clothes away from fire sources.
  • Never attempt to re-light a “dud” or defective firework.
  • Never hold a lighted firework item in your hand.
  • Sparklers should be immersed in a bucket of sand to cool down after burning out, as they remain very hot for some time.
  • Fireworks should be disposed of safely and properly.