With the Victoria Day long weekend fast approaching, municipalities across Muskoka are reminding residents to follow local bylaws and safety precautions when using fireworks.
In Huntsville, consumer fireworks are permitted only on statutory holidays between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Consumer fireworks include low-hazard recreational items such as Roman candles, sparklers, fountains, multi-shot cakes, volcanoes, mines, and snakes.
The town says fireworks are strictly prohibited at all times on highways, sidewalks, and inside or on buildings.
In Bracebridge, fireworks are only permitted on Victoria Day and Canada Day, as well as the days immediately before and after those holidays. The town says fireworks should only be discharged in open areas away from buildings and dry vegetation and are not allowed on streets or public property.
Only individuals 18 or older are permitted to use fireworks.
Officials are also encouraging residents to follow these important safety measures when using fireworks:
- Fireworks should be placed in a bucket of sand and angled away from spectators, while anyone watching should remain at least 10 metres from the firing area.
- Keep water nearby, either through a garden hose or a bucket.
- Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Do not attempt to relight fireworks that fail to discharge and wait at least 30 minutes before handling them.
- Used fireworks should be soaked in water before being disposed of in the garbage.
- Never hold lit fireworks in your hands or point them at others.
- Never give sparklers to children.
Regulations vary across Muskoka, and residents are encouraged to check their local municipal bylaws before setting off fireworks this holiday weekend.
