Fire/Rescue Services - Fireworks Safety
Every year there are people in BC who are seriously injured by fireworks. The Office of the Fire Commissioner and the City of Prince George Fire Department encourages people to enjoy public fireworks displays put on by trained personnel, rather than use recreational fireworks.
The public should be aware of the fireworks regulations that exist within their communities, as many municipalities either prohibit or strictly regulate the use of fireworks. In the City of Prince George a permit is required [PDF] to purchase and explode fireworks as per city Bylaw 4136. If you live out of the city boundaries you will still need a permit to purchase fireworks from stores selling them within the city. These permits may be obtained from any one of the City Firehalls or can be downloaded in PDF format.
Federal regulations prohibit the use of firecrackers and bottle rockets in Canada. Only low hazard recreational fireworks may be used by the general public and then, only in areas where local bylaws do not prohibit their use. In the City of Prince George fireworks may be set off only on private property, for any other location you must have written permission of the property owner.
If recreational fireworks are permitted to be used in your community, the following precautions should be taken:
- Only adults should discharge fireworks. (Note it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 years to be in the possession of fireworks)
- Read and adhere to the instructions on individual pieces of fireworks.
- A safe area should be chosen for discharging fireworks. This should include a bare area of ground, away from buildings, overhead obstructions, trees, vehicles, dry grass and other flammable objects.
- Spectators should watch from a safe distance (at least 20 metres), upwind from the discharge area.
- Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, cars or buildings.
- Never hold fireworks in your hand when lighting them.
- A bucket, large box or wheelbarrow filled with earth or sand makes a good firing base to secure fireworks before lighting.
- A lighting stick should be used to light fireworks, rather than a match or lighter.
- A large bucket of water, sand or a garden hose should be ready at the firing site.
- Do not attempt to re-light a piece that doesn't go off. Do not approach or move the piece for 30 minutes.
- Dispose of spent fireworks in a container of water.