Before you light any fuses this long weekend, be warned that private fireworks are banned within Timmins city limits.
Fire Chief Scott Atkinson says the exception is special events like Canada Day, which go through a vigorous approval process.
Atkinson doesn’t expect the municipality to ever entertain allowing personal fireworks to be sold or shot off.
“They found in the past that people are very careless with fireworks, especially with the amount of forestry that we have around us,” he says, “and this time of year, it doesn’t take much to start a major fire that is not needed.”
“And if they are caught,” he continues, “there is a Provincial Offences Act fine of $475.00 per time they do it and if they are found guilty in court, then the maximum fine can be up to $5,000.”
Atkinson says you can also be held liable for any damages and other fire-related expenses.
One bright spot: Sparklers are allowed. The chief says they’re not considered a firework.
