Stay safe with your fireworks fun

Celebrating Canada Day with fireworks can be a blast, but there are some important tips that can keep everyone safe.

From making sure your fireworks are from a reputable supplier to finding just the right angle before lighting, experts offer a range of tips for home festivities. 

There are even a few pointers on how to keep your pets calm during fireworks shows.

Safety first 

Home light shows can be fun, but without the proper care and attention, things can get out of hand. Here's how to stay safe:

• Purchase your fireworks from an authorized and reputable manufacturer.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place and away from children.
• Fireworks should be handled by a person 18 years or older.
• Only use fireworks outdoors.
• Don't set off fireworks if it is windy. Postpone your display.
• Tilt the firework at a 10-degree angle away from yourself and guests before lighting.
• Do not give children under eight years old a sparkler.
• If your firework does not work, do not pick it up for at least 30 minutes. Don't light the firework again.
• Keep spectators 60 feet away from the fireworks firing line.

Pets hate fireworks

Many pets are often terrified of the crackling light shows. Ontario's SPCA recommends taking a little extra care to keep your animals calm.

"We all want to have a great time this holiday," says Tanya Firmage, chief of humane programs and community outreach with the SPCA. "Keeping in mind simple pet safety tips will help your pet have a great weekend."

Minimize their stress:

• Keep pets in a safe place indoors. This will help reduce noise and ensure the pet doesn't run away.
• Provide an "escape" place for your animal to help ease their stress and calm their fears.
• Use a leash or carrier if you must be outside with your pet and keep it on your pet at all times.

Know the law

It's also important to know the laws in your community. Here's an overview for the region:

Windsor

Fireworks are only available to buy in the 10 business days before the Fourth of July including Canada Day. Fireworks can only be discharged on Canada Day, the day before, and the days between Canada Day and July 4.

Fire crackers are not permitted. If you plan to set off fireworks, only do so on your own property. You must be 18 to set off fireworks.

Tecumseh

By-laws allow fireworks to be bought only on Canada Day and the four days prior. You can also purhcase fireworks on July 4 and the four days prior.

The fireworks cannot be set off in any highway, street, alley, park or other public place. Sky lanterns, a small hot air balloon made of paper, are not allowed to be lit within the town.

Amherstburg

Fireworks can be sold to anyone 16 years and older and can be bought up to seven days before or on Canada Day. Fireworks cannot be set off in any highway, street, public place, park or alley.

Leamington

You can purchase family fireworks, such as pinwheels and roman candles, up to seven days before Canada Day and on the day itself. Fireworks cannot be set off in or on any highway, street, lane, square, public park or other public space and must not be set off on land not belonging to you.  You must also be 18 years or older and have fire extinguishing equipment ready, if needed.