Before you light up the night, take a moment to prepare.

This guide covers quick, practical tips to help you use fireworks safely, legally, and responsibly — whether you're lighting sparklers or putting on a full backyard show.

🧍 Age & Responsibility

• You must be 18 or older to buy or use consumer fireworks.
• Never let children handle fireworks — even sparklers can burn at over 1,000°C.
• A responsible adult should handle all setup and lighting.
• Always follow local bylaws and provincial regulations.

📍 Where, How & When

• Use fireworks in open outdoor areas, away from homes, trees, power lines, and anything flammable.
• Set them on a flat, solid surface like pavement, patio stones, or plywood — never on grass or uneven ground.
• Stabilize each firework with bricks or sandbags on both sides to prevent tipping.
• For Roman Candles, use a bucket of sand or buried pipe — never hold them by hand.
• Check with your local fire department for fire bans, permits, or restrictions.
• Keep your show early in the evening to reduce disruption.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Respect Your Neighbours

• Let neighbours know you’re planning a fireworks show — especially if they have pets or small children.
• Consider inviting them to watch — a heads-up can turn a disruption into a shared celebration.
• Be mindful of anyone with PTSD, sensory sensitivities, or medical conditions.

🔥 Before You Light

• Read and follow the instructions on each firework.
• Have a bucket of water, hose, or fire extinguisher ready.
• Keep a first-aid kit nearby.
• Wear protective eyewear and light fireworks at arm’s length with a long-reach lighter.
• Set up a clear safety zone for spectators.

❌ Never Do This

• Never hold a lit firework or lean over it when lighting.
• Never try to relight a dud — wait 30 minutes, then soak it in water.
• Never use fireworks indoors.
• Never modify fireworks or tape them together — use one at a time, as intended.
• Never use fireworks near pets, livestock, or wildlife.

🧯 After the Show

• Soak all used fireworks in water before throwing them out.
• Clean up any debris and check for lingering embers.
• Dispose of fireworks safely according to local waste rules.
• Store unused fireworks in a cool, dry place, away from children, animals, and anything flammable.

🐾 Pet Safety

• Keep pets indoors in a quiet space during displays.
• Play calming music or white noise to help reduce stress.
• Ensure pets have updated ID tags or are microchipped in case they escape.

👂 Protect Your Hearing

• Fireworks can exceed 150 decibels.
• Use earplugs or earmuffs, especially for children or anyone sensitive to loud sounds.

✅ Celebrate Smart

Used with care and respect, fireworks bring energy and excitement to any celebration. Take a few minutes to prep — it's the simplest way to ensure your night ends with a memory, not a mistake.

Stay safe, celebrate smart, and enjoy the show!