Skip to main page content

Canada Day Weekend Safety from CK Fire

CHATHAM-KENT (June 27, 2024) – Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue (CKFR) is asking residents to be extra careful when celebrating this Canada Day long weekend.

Last weekend firefighters from Station #14 – Erieau were at the local marina promoting the CK Water Safe program. The Marine & Water Safety Day was organized by the Erieau Community Association, partnering with OPP Marine, the Canadian Coast Guard and CK Police.

“We want to remind CK residents and those visiting the area about the importance of being water smart. As families enjoy local pools, splash pads, and open bodies of water for recreational water activities this Canada Day weekend, it is vital to ensure safety is a priority,” explains Fire Chief Chris Case. “Always supervise children and non-swimmers around water. Swimmers need a buddy, don’t let anyone swim alone and always wear a life jacket when you’re on a watercraft.”

Canada Day also brings firework celebrations. CKFR recommends leaving the fireworks to the experts and attending a professional display. 

If you choose to have a family or an informal neighbourhood fireworks display, remember there are responsibilities for selling, purchasing, storing, and setting off fireworks.  Make sure you are purchasing fireworks from a trustworthy seller and never leave fireworks in your car, they need to be stored in a cool, dry place – out of the reach of children.

“Although, we always encourage attending professional fireworks displays, if you do discharge fireworks, please make sure they are away from any combustible materials such as buildings, trees or dry grass and keep a hose or pail of water close by,” explains Community Safety Officer Whitney Burk. “We also want to advise parents to keep sparklers away from children. Hot sparklers can burn and cause serious injury to your child. Celebrate with glow sticks and other glow in the dark items.”

Consumer fireworks can be set off 3 days before, on and 3 days after July 1st until 11pm and must be set off on private property, not municipal property (streets, parks, etc.). Firecrackers are prohibited.

For more information, visit Fire & Rescue | Seasonal Fire Safety (chatham-kent.ca). Review the CK Fireworks By-law here Fireworks By-law 56-2016 (chatham-kent.ca).