SASKATOON — The Saskatoon Fire Department is reminding residents and visitors of safe practices for purchasing, enjoying, and disposing of fireworks.
This New Year’s Eve, on Friday, Dec. 31, low-hazard fireworks can be discharged on private property only between the hours of dusk on New Year’s Eve and 12:15 a.m. on New Year’s Day. Low-hazard fireworks are designed for public recreational use.
These fireworks travel less than 50 metres (160 feet) high and include items such as roman candles, sparklers, fountains, wheels, volcanoes, mines and snakes.
High-hazard fireworks are designed for professionals and can only be purchased by persons holding a valid Fireworks Supervisor – Level I or Level II card issued by Natural Resources Canada.
Residents and spectators are reminded of the risks and obligations associated with fireworks:
- Carefully read and follow the manufacturer instructions.
- Exercise increased caution when handling and discharging any type of firework.
- Choose your location wisely. Fireworks can only be discharged on private property.
- Familiarize yourself with the space requirements for the type of firework being discharged. Requirements vary depending on the firework type.
- Ensure your location is free of overhead obstructions, is clear side-to-side and is a safe distance from combustible materials.
- Ensure that it is not windy and that all spectators are safely located to observe the display.
- Be sure to properly stabilize the firework according to manufacturer direction.
- Other than sparklers, never light or hold a lit firework in your hand.
- Always light the fuse at its tip.
- Never try to relight or fix the fuse on fireworks that did not go off.
- Have a supply of water or snow available and use it to extinguish debris or smouldering embers before they cause injuries, property damage and/or fires.
- Keep in mind that you are solely responsible for any debris that may land on spectators or another person's property.
The SFD wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable New Year’s Eve celebration.
For more information about fireworks safety, please visit saskatoon.ca/fireworks.
