Celebrate Diwali safely: Follow the rules when using fireworks

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As Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, approaches, families across Mississauga are getting ready to celebrate. The holiday symbolizes triumph over darkness through colourful lights, candles, lanterns, diyas and fireworks. As preparations for Diwali are underway, the City of Mississauga is reminding residents to follow the Fireworks By-law, related rules and other safety measures when using fireworks at home so that celebrations are safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Lighting fireworks for Diwali

This year, you can light fireworks at home, on your private property, on Monday, October 20 and Tuesday, October 21 from dusk until 11 p.m., as per the City’s Fireworks By-law. You cannot light fireworks on a public street.

You need a permit from the City if you want to light fireworks:

• On your private property on any other day than Monday, October 20 and Tuesday, October 21.
• At a public park on any day of the year.

During celebration days where fireworks are expected, like Diwali, the City increases the number of Enforcement officers on duty. This allows for more patrols, improves response time for complaints and helps ensure celebrations stay safe. Enforcement officers will also be on-site with Peel Regional Police at locations where illegal use of fireworks and gatherings are of concern.

Do not call 911 for fireworks complaints unless someone is injured or there is a fire risk due to improper use of fireworks. To submit a complaint about illegal use of fireworks, visit mississauga.ca/fireworks or call 311.

Fireworks safety

When planning for the celebrations, make safety a part of your plans. Understanding how to safely use fireworks can help prevent injuries, fires or property damage. Talk to your family and friends before using fireworks to keep everyone safe.

When using fireworks, make sure to:

• Only buy from licensed vendors.
• Fully read and understand the instructions, cautions and warnings on each item.
• Set up outside in a clear, open space on your private property.
• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
• Aim fireworks away from others, homes, trees and flammable materials.
• Always watch over children and make sure those watching are a safe distance away from the display.
• Safely dispose of used or leftover 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.

Remember to clean up where you used fireworks. Nobody likes a mess.

Fire safety

Diwali is a time of celebration and for coming together with family and friends. Make fire safety a priority when setting up and enjoying decorations, and while cooking.

Lights and decorations

Place diyas and candles in a sturdy holder on a heat-resistant surface away from curtains, furniture, decorations and loose clothing. Never leave open flames unattended and keep them out of reach of children and pets. As an alternative, use flameless battery-powered candles.

Cooking and kitchen safety

When cooking, keep fire safety in mind:

• Stay focused while cooking. Turn off appliances if you leave the kitchen.
• Keep flammable items like towels and clothing away from the stovetop.
• Never cook or barbecue in your garage.
• Don’t use portable gas stoves or grills indoors. They’re meant for outdoor use only.
• Be careful when frying and cooking with oil. Hot oil can easily catch fire. If you’re deep frying, try using a fryer with a temperature control so the oil doesn’t get too hot.

Be mindful of others when celebrating

When hosting or attending a party or gathering, be respectful of your neighbours to avoid a possible fine.

Know your noise limits

Make sure to follow the rules of the City’s Noise Control By-law. Under the Noise Control By-law, recreational and event noise like yelling, shouting and singing during parties is prohibited on Monday to Saturday from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., and from Saturday 11 p.m. to 9 a.m. Sunday.

Hear excessive, persistent and recurring noise or within these prohibited times? Report it online.

Gather responsibly

The City’s Nuisance Gathering By-law regulates social gatherings on private property to prevent negative impacts on the surrounding neighbourhood. In Mississauga, a gathering can be a nuisance from activities including making unreasonable noise, using unlawful fireworks, and causing damage to property or any other activities resulting in a public disturbance.

If a gathering is causing a nuisance in your neighbourhood, report it by calling 311.

Follow all parking rules and signs

Having people over? On-street parking is permitted for up to five hours, unless posted otherwise. If you or your guests need to park on the street for longer, request a Temporary Parking Permit. Remember, you are not allowed to park your vehicle in any areas with ‘no parking’ signs posted. Do not block the sidewalk or a neighbour’s driveway when parking.

See parking violations happening on your street? You can report it online.

Learn more about the use of fireworks in Mississauga and the process for reporting illegal use of fireworks: mississauga.ca/fireworks

Learn more about how to prevent a fire: mississauga.ca/fire

Tags

• Enforcement and Fines
• Fire and Emergency Services
• Public Safety