Celebrate safely this Diwali

eAwazLifestyle

​BRAMPTON– The City of Brampton reminds residents of the importance of being safe while using fireworks on Diwali on Monday, October 24. Many in the community also celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas on this date.

Diwali is one of four days a year when short-range fireworks are allowed on private property in Brampton without the need for a permit. Under the by-law, fireworks are also permitted on Victoria Day, Canada Day and New Year’s Eve.

Short-range fireworks are those that travel less than three metres (10 feet) when set off (e.g.: fountains, wheels, ground spinners, sparklers). That’s roughly the height of a Brampton Transit bus or a basketball hoop.

All other rocket-type fireworks are banned in Brampton. The City reminds residents that fireworks are not permitted on the street, sidewalks, within City parks or on municipal or school properties.

When using short-range fireworks on private property, residents must follow these safety precautions:
• Have a container of water or a hose line filled with water available to extinguish fireworks.
• Never light a firework or hold a lit firework in your hand, other than a sparkler.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• After using sparklers, place them in a container of water to fully cool before disposal.
• Allow all fireworks to fully cool before disposal.

Vendors who plan to sell fireworks for Diwali and New Year’s Eve on December 31 are reminded that training is mandatory, and completion of the training course is compulsory before vendors can be licensed to sell. Vendors who have already obtained a fire inspection and completed the training course must apply online to obtain or renew a licence. Once approved, the licence can be picked up from City Hall, 2 Wellington St W, beginning October 17.

The City recommends residents purchase fireworks from licensed retailers. A list of registered fireworks retailers in Brampton will be available on the City website.

For more information on firework safety and bylaws, visit www.brampton.ca/fireworks.

Advance Voting

As a reminder, Voting Day for the 2022 Brampton Municipal and School Board Election also takes place on October 24. Advance voting is available on October 14 and 15 for Brampton electors to vote in advance of Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas celebrations. More information here.