If you’re going to set off fireworks in Campbell River this Halloween, remember to get a permit.
“You must have a permit to possess and discharge fireworks within the City of Campbell River on private property,” said Cpl. Poppy Hallam of the Campbell River RCMP. “Permits cost $40 and can be obtained through the Campbell River Fire Department two weeks in advance of your function. The Fire Department keeps a record of those permits.
“Campbell River RCMP may issue bylaw tickets for those found in contravention of this bylaw and the fine is $200. Along with the permit, you must also have permission from the City of Campbell River if you wish to discharge fireworks on city property.”
Each and every Halloween, hospital emergency rooms prepare for an influx of children and adults with firework-associated injuries. So, with Halloween creeping up on us this Friday, here are some safety tips for the community.
Road Safety/Yard Safety:
- Carry a flashlight so you can see where you are going.
- Walk, don’t run.
- Stay on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
- Visit houses on one side of the street at a time.
- Never walk out between cars to cross the street.
- Stay in familiar neighbourhoods.
- Don’t cut across yards or driveways.
- Obey traffic signals and give traffic the right of way.
- Ideally, young children of any age should be accompanied by an adult.
- Make sure your yard is clear of such things as ladders, hoses, dog leashes and flower pots that can trip the young ones.
Costumes:
- Make sure your costume doesn’t drag on the ground so you don’t trip.
- Wear comfortable shoes, even if they don’t go with your costume.
- Wear makeup instead of a mask. This will allow you to see and be aware of everything going on around you while walking house to house.
- It is safer to carry flexible knives, swords or other props.
- Wear clothing with reflective markings or tape.
- If you buy a costume, look for one made of flame retardant material.
Trick or Treat:
- Only approach houses that have the outside lights turned on.
- Trick-or-treat in groups.
- Never enter a stranger’s home or car for a treat.
- Although tampering is rare, tell children to bring the candy home to be inspected before consuming anything. Look at the wrapping carefully and toss out anything that looks suspect.
- Discuss with your children what they should do to call home in case of emergency.
Pets:
- Stay away from and don’t pet animals you don’t know.
- Pets get frightened on Halloween; put them inside to protect them from cars or inadvertently biting a trick-or-treater.
Fire Prevention:
- Battery powered Jack-O-Lantern candles are preferable to a real flame.