Fireworks safety reminders for Diwali and Halloween
With Diwali next Monday (Oct. 20) and Halloween right around the corner, Surrey Schools is sharing some fireworks safety reminders with our school communities to ensure both celebrations remain safe and fun for everyone.
The City of Surrey has issued a press release on fireworks safety and enforcement ahead of Diwali and Halloween. Fireworks and firecrackers are dangerous and can cause significant injury.
Setting off fireworks on public property – including school grounds – is also prohibited.
As per City of Surrey bylaws, fireworks and firecrackers are not permitted to be sold, purchased or displayed in Surrey, or to be used in Surrey without a permit granted by the Surrey Fire Service Fire Prevention Branch. Those caught selling or setting off fireworks are subject to fines and seizure of the fireworks.
Last year, Surrey City Council approved significant increases to fines related to the sale and use of fireworks (see also the press release in Punjabi), increasing the minimum penalty to $400 and the maximum penalty to $50,000.
Police and the City of Surrey Bylaws Enforcement Team will be working together across the city to ensure public safety throughout the night. Last year, enforcement led to more than 1,150 site visits and 130 tickets issued.
If you have concerns regarding the misuse of fireworks in your neighbourhood or witness fireworks being discharged illegally, contact Surrey Bylaws at 604-591-4370. Please do not call 911 for fireworks-related concerns as 911 is reserved for emergencies only.
You may also call the Surrey RCMP non-emergency line at 604-599-0502 to report any complaints about fireworks. Surrey RCMP are unable to receive reports of criminal activity via social media such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
Stay tuned next week for additional safety tips for Halloween – there are many ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while trick-or-treating or celebrating Halloween at home and at school.
Have a happy and safe Diwali and Halloween!