Fireworks light up the sky behind a Canadian flag. (Photo by Maureen Revait, Blackburn News)Fireworks light up the sky behind a Canadian flag. (Photo by Maureen Revait, Blackburn News)
Midwestern

Canada Day celebrations go virtual

Canada Day will look a little different.

Parades and community fireworks displays may have been cancelled because of the pandemic but many communities aren't letting that put a damper on spirit.

They're turning to social media, urging people to show their decorations through images and videos.

You can check your respective municipality's website or social media accounts to see what type of virtual celebrations are on-going.

The OPP and Canada Safety Council is also sharing fireworks safety tips for any celebrations being held at home.

  • Follow the laws and regulations regarding the use of fireworks
  • Purchase your fireworks from a reliable source that sells products meeting safety standards
  • Stay away from illegal explosives or firecrackers and do not improvise and make your own fireworks
  • Always read the instructions, cautions and warnings on each firework item
  • Store unused fireworks in a closed box away from the firework being lit and do not smoke around the fireworks
  • Set up outdoors in a clear, open space. Light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface
  • Check the wind and have the wind blowing away from spectators
  • Spectators should be at least the safety distance written on the fireworks label away from the display, keeping constant supervision on children
  • Have a bucket of sand, supply of water and a working fire extinguisher on hand
  • Only adults should handle the fireworks. If you are impaired by alcohol or drugs do not handle the fireworks
  • Light only one firework item at a time
  • Wear protective eye glasses and gloves. Light at arm's length and then stand back
  • Never lean over the fireworks and keep hair and clothes away from fire sources
  • Never attempt to re-light a "dud" or defective firework
  • Never hold a lighted firework item in your hand
  • Sparklers should be immersed in a bucket of sand to cool down after burning out, as they remain very hot for some time
  • Fireworks should be disposed of safely and properly

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