Be a good neighbour, Ontario, and stay safe on Firecracker Day [Video]

Victoria Day, the day formerly known as Firecracker Day, is fast approaching and Oshawa Fire want to remind residents to keep fire safety and their neighbours in mind when celebrating the occasion.

Under the City’s Fireworks By-law  family fireworks can be set off on private property without a permit between dusk and 11 p.m. on just three days through the year: Victoria Day on May 19, Canada Day (July 1) and Diwali (October 20).

Using fireworks outside the allotted time can result in fines of up to $100,000.

Safety tips from Oshawa Fire:

• Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
• Read and follow the label directions on fireworks packaging.
• Keep a water hose or pail of water close by when setting off fireworks.
• Discharge fireworks far away from combustible materials like buildings, trees and dry grass.
• Keep onlookers a safe distance away …