There will be a lot of fireworks this Canada Day weekend. If you want to set some off, make sure you're doing it legally, properly, and safely.

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service wants to remind the public to be cautious with fireworks. Janet Bier, the Director of Fire Prevention, wants everyone to do it properly.

"You must obtain a permit from our department to set off any consumer fireworks," Bier said. "[The big firework shows] obtain permits as well, so the rules apply to everyone."

If you are setting up fireworks in your own yard, you must have 30 meters of space between the base mound of the fireworks and any combustible buildings or structures. "In many cases, residents within the City of Winnipeg will not meet those requirements," Bier said. If that's the case, you would need to have written permission from all your neighbours or from the City if it's a public building.

Other safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface
  • Fireworks should be buried halfway down in sand, either on the ground or in a bucket
  • Never hold a lighted firework in your hand
  • Have a bucket of sand, a garden hose hooked up to a water supply, and a working fire extinguisher on hand
  • Only use fireworks purchased in Canada that meet all safety standards

"You must be 18 years or older to handle fireworks," said Bier. "Children should be at least 20 meters away from the firing base."

Fireworks need to be disposed of properly when they have been used, and should be stored in a cool, dry and ventilated place if they have not been used.

"Happy Canada Day," Bier finished.