Oshawa Diwali fireworks may be discharged on private property between dusk and 11 p.m. on Sunday, November 8, the City says in a new safety reminder.
Oshawa Fire Services issued the November 4 notice ahead of the Festival of Lights, asking residents to follow the City’s fireworks bylaw and the instructions supplied with each product.
Private property only
The permission is for consumer, or family, fireworks on private property. It does not allow fireworks in parks, schoolyards or other public spaces.
The City identifies Victoria Day, Canada Day and Diwali as the three occasions when consumer fireworks may be discharged without a permit between dusk and 11 p.m. Use outside permitted hours or locations, or contrary to the manufacturer’s requirements, is prohibited.
Residents should consult Oshawa’s own rules rather than assume the same dates and hours apply in neighbouring municipalities. The separate Ajax reminder already reported by All About Durham does not establish the rules for Oshawa.
Prepare before lighting fireworks
The fire service advises choosing a responsible adult to handle fireworks, reading the packaging and keeping a hose or bucket of water nearby. Spectators should remain a safe distance away and upwind, while the required clearance from buildings, trees and dry grass must be maintained.
Fireworks should be lit one at a time on the ground. The City says not to hold them or try to relight a failed firework. Duds should be soaked in water for 30 minutes before disposal in a metal container.
Its advice also includes using fireworks only in safe wind conditions, keeping sparklers away from children and soaking used sparklers immediately.
Consider neighbours and indoor fire risks
Oshawa asks residents to tell neighbours about their plans, remember that loud sounds can frighten pets and clean up fireworks debris safely.
The notice also urges care with candles and oil lamps during Diwali. Flames should be kept away from curtains, decorations, furniture and loose clothing, placed in sturdy holders on stable surfaces and extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed.
The City’s official reminder and fireworks webpage provide the local requirements. No broader permission for other days or public locations is implied.
