Safety and Fire Prevention - Fireworks Safety

The safest way to enjoy fireworks while celebrating Canada Day is to attend the public display held at Lakeview Park.

If you are planning to mark Canada Day this year with your own family fireworks show, here is some information from Oshawa Fire Services to help keep your celebration a safe one.

When are fireworks legal in Oshawa?

• Fireworks can only be sold twice a year - on Victoria Day and Canada Day, and the six day preceding these two statutory holidays - in licenced retail stores and mobile trailers.
• Fireworks can only be sold to individuals 18 years and older.
• Family fireworks can only be set off on private property.
• A permit is required for any fireworks display.

When planning a backyard fireworks display, follow these safety guidelines:

• Purchase your fireworks from a reliable source.
• Always read and follow the label directions.
• Check the wind. Place fireworks in a bucket of sand and incline fireworks to go away from spectators (postpone fireworks if wind is strong).
• Keep fireworks in a closed box. Remove them one at a time and close the lid.
• Keep everyone at least 25ft away from the fireworks firing line.
• Keep all pets safely indoors.
• Persons using fireworks must be at least 18 years old.
• Use outdoors only.
• Always have water handy (a garden hose or bucket).
• Never set off fireworks during an open air burning ban.
• Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
• Never take fireworks apart or modify them in any way
• Light only one firework at a time. Wear eye protection and gloves while lighting fireworks.
• Light fireworks at arms length, then immediately stand back.
• Never lean over fireworks or attempt to pick up a "dud" for at least 30 minutes (Never re-light a "dud" firework).
• Never give fireworks to small children.
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan.
• Always put discarded sparklers into a bucket of water.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never hold a lit firework in your hand.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Stay away from illegal explosives. "Firecrackers" are unsafe and illegal.

In case of fire or an emergency, call 9-1-1.