Fireworks safety tips for Lunar New Year

As we get ready to enter the Year of the Snake, the City of London would like to remind residents planning backyard fireworks to adhere to the Fireworks By-law and keep safety top of mind as they celebrate the Lunar New Year.

City Council has permitted backyard fireworks for Lunar New Year’s Eve celebrations on Tuesday, January 28 between dusk and 11 p.m. Londoners are reminded that fireworks are not permitted to be discharged into City parks or streets. Municipal Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Prevention Inspectors will be out in the community enforcing municipal by-laws.

There are plenty of safety tips and precautions that Londoners can follow to minimize the risk of burns or fires from fireworks:

• Fireworks should only be handled and discharged by adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions 
• Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks
• Light only one firework at a time and only when they are on the ground 
• For dud fireworks, it is best to wait 30 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water

Londoners are encouraged to review more fireworks safety tips available on the City’s Fireworks webpage. Remember, in the event of a fire or personal injury that requires immediate attention, call 9-1-1.

To register a complaint regarding fireworks, please contact the London Police Service non-emergency line at 519-661-5670. Police will triage the call and either attend themselves or refer the matter to Municipal Law Enforcement for response. 

We wish everyone good fortune and happiness in the Year of the Snake!