Fireworks

Fireworks have the potential to cause serious injury. Toronto Fire Services recommends that families visit a community fireworks presentation conducted by a professional fireworks display company.

If you are hosting your own backyard fireworks display, make sure you have the proper sized yard and that there are no buildings or trees nearby.

Fireworks should be handled and supervised by adults 18 years of age or older. Children and those under 18 years old are not permitted to discharge fireworks.

Always read and follow the directions on the manufacturer’s label for the fireworks you purchase. This will include information on how far away the spectators need to be so that everyone can stay safe.

Take the time to prepare, protect and prevent: prepare for a safe display, protect all and prevent fireworks accidents. The following list of safety tips is for adults hosting their own backyard fireworks event.

Prepare

• Purchase fireworks from a retailer displaying a City-issued fireworks vendor permit.
• Always read and follow the directions on the manufacturer’s label.
• Before fireworks and sparklers are used, they must be kept out of reach of children, preferably in a locked cupboard or drawer.
• Discharge the fireworks a safe distance from combustible materials such as buildings and trees.
• Before igniting, fireworks should be buried at least half their length into a bucket of earth or sand when portable firing bases are not available. Unless the label on the fireworks indicate otherwise, set them aimed straight up and away from people.

Protect

• Light the fireworks at arm’s length, stand back and keep your face turned away. If a firework fails to ignite, wait at least 30 minutes before approaching it and then soak it in a bucket of water. Never try to re-light or fix fireworks that fail to ignite or that are cracked, broken, leaking powder or are missing the wick.
• The adult igniting the fireworks must wear eye protection and avoid having any part of their body over the firework.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never discharge fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Never discharge fireworks indoors.
• If someone suffers a burn, run cool water over the area for a few minutes and consider further treatment. Call 911 if needed.

Prevent

• The ends of sparklers continue to stay hot for some time and can burn a child’s skin, clothing or nearby combustible materials. To prevent an injury, douse or soak the ends of sparklers with water or allow to cool in a safe place.
• Do not allow sparklers to be used indoors.
• Children make a great audience, but they must never be permitted to light fireworks. Adults are responsible for handling the fireworks while spectators watch the display from a safe distance.
• One designated adult should ignite the fireworks.
• Ignited fireworks must never be hand-held.
• Light only one firework item at a time.
• Always have water on hand – a garden hose and bucket of water – to soak fireworks after they have fired.

Impacts on Birds

Victoria Day and Canada Day both fall during nesting season. Fireworks can have negative consequences for Toronto’s birds and their hatchlings. Fireworks can:

• Drown out a bird’s ability to communicate and cause birds to abandon nests and fledglings for their own perceived safety
• Start fires, especially in meadows, destroying ground bird nests and depleting food sources.
• Contain toxic heavy metals that mix with water and create hazardous drinking water for birds

What can you do?

• Fireworks are not allowed in parks and on beaches. Do not discharge fireworks near natural habitats, such as ravines or unmowed fields.
• Properly dispose of used and unused fireworks if you are setting off fireworks on your own property on Victoria Day and Canada Day.

Impacts on Cats & Dogs

Fireworks can have a significant negative impact on the well-being of cats and dogs due to the loud noises and flashing lights, which can be extremely frightening. These pets may experience fear, anxiety, and stress, leading to various behavioural changes.

Specific impacts include:

• Fear and Anxiety: The sudden, loud, and unpredictable noises of fireworks can be highly stressful for cats and dogs, triggering a fear response.
• Behavioural Changes: Animals may display signs of distress, such as hiding, trembling, panting, excessive barking or meowing, scratching furniture, and inappropriate elimination.
• Physiological Effects: Some pets may experience physical symptoms like increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and even vomiting.
• Increased Risk of Injury: In their attempts to escape the perceived threat, dogs and cats may injure themselves, potentially leading to lacerations, sprains, or broken limbs.
• Increased Risk of Getting Lost: The stress and panic caused by fireworks can also make pets more likely to bolt and run away, increasing the risk of getting lost.
• Potential for Poisoning: Fireworks residue can contain toxic substances that can harm pets if ingested.

Tips for Minimizing Impacts:

• Keep Pets Indoors: During fireworks displays, it's crucial to keep pets indoors and away from windows.
• Create a Safe Haven: Provide a quiet, comfortable space for your pet to retreat to during fireworks, such as a crate or a room with thick curtains.
• Calming Techniques: Offer familiar toys, soothing music, or calming aids like pheromone diffusers to help pets relax.
• Distraction: Engage pets with games or activities to distract them from the noise and lights.
• Desensitization and Training: Consider desensitization and training programs to help pets adjust to loud noises over time.
• Plan for Potty Breaks: Ensure pets have ample opportunities to relieve themselves outside before the fireworks begin, as they may be less likely to go outside if they are anxious or stressed.
• Maintain a Calm Demeanour: Your calm demeanour can help reassure your pet and reduce their anxiety.
• Identification: Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with identification tags and has a microchip.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your pets' safety and well-being during fireworks displays.

It is important to safely dispose of fireworks. Improper disposal of fireworks can cause fires in waste collection vehicles and at facilities. Never put used or unused fireworks in the Blue Bin (recycling).

To dispose of used or unused fireworks, completely submerge the fireworks in water and soak them overnight. Dispose of them in your Garbage Bin.

Dispose of used or unused fireworks in small quantities in your Garbage Bin – up to 10 items at a time. Additional quantities of fireworks should be placed in the Garbage Bin over separate garbage collection dates.

Lighters with fuel must be disposed of as household hazardous waste.