Keep fire safety in mind on Diwali – Oshawa and Clarington Fire

Oshawa and Clarington fire services are both reminding Diwali celebrators to keep safety in mind when setting off fireworks.

Diwali, which is being observed October 31, is one of the few days when fireworks are allowed. In both communities, fireworks may be discharged between dusk and 11 p.m. The use of fireworks outside the allowed time period can result in fines of up to $100,000.

Clarington residents will require a permit for fireworks, though the permit fees are waived for Diwali.

Fireworks safety reminders:

• Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
• Carefully read and follow the label directions on fireworks packaging.
• Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks.
• Discharge fireworks well away from combustible materials like buildings, trees and dry grass.
• Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from the area where fireworks are discharged.
• Light only one firework at a time and only when they are located on the ground. Never try to light a firework in your hand or re-light dud fireworks. For dud fireworks, it is best to wait 30 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water. Dispose of them in a metal container.
• Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard.
• Keep sparklers away from children. Sparklers burn extremely hot and can ignite clothing, cause blindness and result in severe burns. As the sparkler wire remains hot for several minutes after burnout, it should be immediately soaked in water to avoid injury.
• If someone is burned, run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes and if necessary seek medical attention.

Other safety tips to enjoy a safe Diwali:

• When lighting candles or small oil lamps, keep flames at a safe distance from curtains, furniture, decorations and loose clothing. Always be sure to extinguish before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Keep candles in sturdy holders on level surfaces with a glass chimney or shade over it.
• When cooking, clear the area of items that might catch fire easily and do not leave food unattended. Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Install smoke alarms on every storey, outside all sleeping areas and in bedrooms as required and install carbon monoxide alarms outside any sleeping areas. Test your alarms monthly.

Oshawa Fire asks those celebrating to be a good neighbour and communicate plans with neighbours; be considerate of pets; and clean up and safely dispose of fireworks fallout.

Clarington Fire cautions those celebrating Diwali next Thursday to keep the fireworks off public roads, private land that isn’t your own and public parks and greenspaces.