Canada Day celebrations are back and in person.
For the first time in two years, pandemic restrictions are nearly all gone for the holiday, and events are back.
The Rotary Club of Guelph’s annual fireworks show is back this year at Riverside Park on the night of July 1.
For residents who decide to set off their own fireworks, however, here are some of the rules.
CITY TIPS AND RULES
— Store fireworks in cool, dry place.
— Only use fireworks outdoors in open areas away from buildings, dry grass and trees.
— Do not use fireworks in high winds.
— Keep the audience at least 12.1 metres (40 feet) away from the discharging area.
— Keep an extinguisher or water nearby (garden hose or bucket).
— Light one firework at a time.
— Put used or extinguished fireworks in a bucket of water immediately after use. Soak them overnight, drain the water and put the used fireworks in the garbage.
— Keep pets safe indoors during fireworks.
WHAT ABOUT PERSONAL FIREWORK SHOWS?
The Canadian Safety Council has the following tips for personal fireworks shows:
— Only those who are 18 years old or over should handle fireworks, and anyone handling fireworks should be sober.
— Light only one firework item at a time.
— Wear protective eye glasses and gloves. Light at arm’s length and then stand back.
— Never lean over the fireworks, and keep hair and clothes away from fire sources.
— Never attempt to relight a “dud” or defective firework.
— Never hold a lighted firework item in your hand.
WHAT ABOUT PETS?
When it comes to animals, both pets and wildlife can be impacted by a barrage of fireworks on Canada Day.
Sonia Maiorano, a registered veterinary technician who works at the Guelph Humane Society, told the Guelph Mercury Tribune that those setting off fireworks should consider doing the following to limit the impact on animals:
— Bring pets to a quieter space such as the basement.
— Play a radio or TV to create white noise for the pet so they aren’t as startled by the fireworks.
— Spend quality time with your pets if they appear scared of the fireworks.
— Consider setting off fireworks only one day out of the weekend to limit the impact.
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