Fireworks safety reminders during Diwali

Oshawa Fire Services reminds those celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights, to keep fire safety in mind. In Oshawa, fireworks may be discharged between dusk and 11 p.m. on Diwali, Sunday, November 8.

Under the City’s Fireworks By-law, community members may only discharge consumer (family) fireworks on private property in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements, which includes maintaining specific distance away from buildings, trees and dry grass. Discharge of consumer fireworks without a permit is only allowed between dusk and 11 p.m. on:

• Victoria Day
• Canada Day
• Diwali

The use of fireworks outside permitted times, contrary to the manufacturer’s requirements, or in public spaces, including public parks and school yards is prohibited and may result in fines of up to $100,000. For additional information on permitted and prohibited activities, please review the Fireworks By-law.

Fireworks safety reminders:

All fireworks must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements, which includes maintaining specific distances away from buildings, trees, and dry grass.

• Read and follow all instructions on the packaging
• Assign a responsible adult to handle and discharge fireworks
• Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby
• Ensure spectators stay at a safe, upwind distance
• Light one firework at a time on the ground; never hold fireworks or relight duds
• Soak duds in water for 30 minutes before disposing of them in a metal container
• Only discharge fireworks in safe wind conditions
• Keep sparklers away from children; soak used sparklers in water immediately
• For burns, run cool water over the area for 3 to 5 minutes and seek medical care if needed

Be a considerate neighbour

The City’s by-laws regulate the use of fireworks in a way that is intended to be considerate of the whole community. Other ways to be a good neighbour include:

• Communicating your plans with your neighbours ahead of time
• Be aware of pets; they often become frightened by the sound
• Enjoying the fireworks within the permitted time period
• Safely clean up and dispose of fireworks fallout

Other safety tips to enjoy a safe Diwali:

• Keep candles and oil lamps away from curtains, furniture, decorations and loose clothing. Always extinguish them before leaving a room or going to bed.
• Use sturdy candle holders on stable surfaces and cover flames with a glass chimney or shade.
• When cooking, keep flammable items away from the stove, never leave food unattended and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, outside sleeping areas and in bedrooms as required. Test them monthly.

To learn more about the sale and lighting of fireworks in Oshawa, visit the Fireworks webpage or review the Fireworks By-law. For information about Oshawa Fire Services, visit oshawa.ca/Fire or follow them on X.