Belleville Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents not to light up fireworks. As per the fireworks by-law, the public discharge of fireworks is not permitted in Belleville, outside of Victoria Day or Canada Day, without express written consent from the fire chief.
Fire Chief Dan Smith says he will not be approving requests for discharging fireworks due to safety concerns:
- Current wind speeds are averaging 15-25 kilometres per hour, causing increased chance of displays blowing over and lack of control where fireworks could go
- High volume of dry leaves on the ground, creating a fire hazard which could spread quickly
- Large crowds which could cause a higher rate of injuries due to proximity
- Disposal issues, potentially causing garbage fires
- Lack of notice to adequately review written requests for approval
Unsafe use of fireworks is a by-law offence and upon conviction, would be liable to a fine.
