Canada Day fireworks illegal on P.E.I. without permit

Fireworks displays will be a big part of Canada Day celebrations on P.E.I. this weekend.

But if you're planning to set off your own fireworks, you can only do it legally if you obtain a permit.

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According to the P.E.I. Department of Justice and Public Safety, "the display, sale, and possession of fireworks by persons who do not have a permit is prohibited in the Province of Prince Edward Island in accordance with the Fire Prevention Act Regulations.

"Family fireworks that can be purchased in other provinces are illegal in Prince Edward Island unless those persons are licensed and have taken out a permit through the Fire Marshal's Office."

Safety tips

If you do have a permit, the Canada Safety Council has issued some reminders on how to handle and set off fireworks.

• Obey any municipal bylaws regarding the fireworks.
• When purchasing fireworks, trust only reliable sources that adhere to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) safety standards.
• If you have any leftover fireworks, store them in their original package, in a cool place out of children's reach, and keep them away from those that are going to be lit.
• Set up the fireworks outdoors in a clear, open space. Light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface to ensure stability, ensuring that the wind is blowing away from the spectators.
• Prior to starting the show, gather a bucket of sand, a supply of water and a working fire extinguisher and keep them on hand as a preventative measure.
• Avoid smoking near fireworks.
• Don't handle fireworks if you are impaired.
• Only light one firework at a time.
• Wear protective equipment, including eye glasses and gloves. Hold the firework item at arm's length before lighting it, then stand back. Never hold a lit firework.
• If a firework is a dud or does not work properly, never attempt to re-light it. Discard the firework and dispose of it using the below tips.
• Soaking fireworks in water before throwing them out will help prevent accidental ignition.
• Sparklers can remain hot for a long time after being lit. Dunk them in a bucket of sand until they're cool enough to dispose of safely.

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