Celebrate safely this Diwali: Follow the rules and use fireworks safely

*This story has been translated into Punjabi, Hindi, Tamil and Gujarati.

Diwali, often referred to as the Festival of Lights, is coming up, with families across Mississauga preparing for their celebrations. As a holiday that symbolizes triumph over darkness, celebrations often involve colourful lights, candles, lanterns, food and fireworks.

As preparations for the holiday are underway, the City of Mississauga is reminding residents to prioritize safety and be a good neighbour so that celebrations are safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Fireworks

As per the City’s Fireworks By-law, Diwali fireworks are allowed at home on your private property only on Friday, November 1 from dusk until 11 p.m. To use fireworks on a public street or park, or on any day other than November 1, you must get a permit from the City.

When using fireworks:

• Fully read and understand the instructions, cautions and warnings on each item.
• Make sure all spectators and pedestrians are a safe distance away from the display.
• Children should be supervised at all times.
• To dispose of used or unused fireworks, completely submerge the fireworks in water and soak them overnight. Wrap the soaked fireworks in a plastic bag and throw them in the garbage.

During holidays when fireworks are expected, like Diwali, the City increases the number of Enforcement officers on duty to allow for more patrols, improve response time for complaints and help ensure celebrations stay safe. Enforcement officers will also be onsite to support Peel Regional Police at locations where illegal use of fireworks has been an issue in the past.

To submit a complaint about illegal use of fireworks, visit mississauga.ca/fireworks or call 311. Please do not call 911 for fireworks complaints unless someone is injured or there is an imminent fire risk as a result of fireworks.

Fire safety

Lights and decorations

It’s important to make fire safety a priority when setting up and enjoying decorations. Diyas and candles must be placed firmly in a sturdy holder on a heat-resistant surface and should always be watched by an adult. Remember to keep flames a safe distance from curtains, furniture, decorations and loose clothing, and to keep children and pets away from all sources of heat and flames. Closets do not provide sufficient space for open flames.

Cooking and kitchen safety

Diwali is a time of celebration and coming together with friends and family – often around a dinner table or in the kitchen. When cooking, keep fire safety in mind:

• Don’t get distracted. If you must leave the kitchen, make sure hot appliances are turned off.
• Keep towels and clothes away from the stovetop.
• Never cook or barbecue in your garage.
• Do not bring portable gas-fuelled cooking appliances into your home for use.
• Be careful when frying and cooking with oil. Hot oil can easily catch fire. Use a thermostat-controlled deep-fat fryer that will make sure the fat does not get too hot.

When planning for the holiday, make safety a part of your plans, talk to your family and friends before using fireworks and keep vulnerable people safe.

Check out the City’s fire prevention web page for more tips on how to prevent a fire.

Visit mississauga.ca/fireworks to learn more about the use of fireworks in Mississauga and the process for reporting illegal use of fireworks.

Tags

• Enforcement and Fines