Caution Urged for Canada Day Fireworks

People using fireworks at their Canada Day celebrations can safely enjoy the spectacle by taking a few precautions.

The Nova Scotia fire marshal is joining with all fire departments in the province in offering a number of tips to prevent serious injury of even death as a result of improper use of fireworks.

"Fireworks are not toys, and should not be handled by anyone under the age of 19," said Robert Cormier, fire marshall. "Even the hand-held sparklers burn at extremely hot temperatures, and should not be handled by young children."

The following are guidelines for the safe enjoyment of fireworks this Canada Day weekend.

• Purchase fireworks from a reliable source
• Carefully read and follow package instructions
• Always keep a water supply nearby, either hose or bucket
• Discharge fireworks well away from buildings, trees, dry grass, or other combustibles
• Keep observers at a safe distance
• Light only one firework at a time, and never light or hold one in your hand when lit
• Never re-light dud fireworks. Wait 30 minutes and soak in water before disposal in a metal garbage can.
• The adult discharging fireworks should always wear eye protection, and keep body parts out of the path of the firework.
• Treat burns with cool water for three to five minutes, and seek medical attention if necessary.

For further safety information, see the Natural Resources Canada - explosive regulatory division website at www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/explosif/edu/edu_family_e.htm .