Fireworks Frustration on Towards Freedom

Presenting to Politicians

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 14:39:51 -0700

In order to ban fireworks, citizens need to educate and convince their politicians. The information here details the process for presenting to various municipalties at council meetings.

Understanding the political structure

The political landscape in any country flows up a structure beginning at a local level (towns/cities), to a provincial level (group of local levels), to the national level (group of provinces or states). Policy developed from the bottom can be dictated from the top!

For example, consider the process to follow in British Columbia, Canada: local politicians refer matters to higher and higher levels eventually stopping at the provincial government. Author and consultant, Lavinia Rojas, who is an experienced advocate in various initiatives explains:

“When we refer to politicians, we are specifically talking about councillors who play a crucial role in representing our concerns and forwarding them to higher authorities. The AVICC (Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities) hosts an annual conference where councillors come together to discuss and resolve proposals. Once a proposal is resolved, it moves on to the UBCM (Union of Municipalities of BC), where all municipality members get to vote on it. If the vote is approved, the proposal is then sent to the provincial government, specifically the office of the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.”

So as citizens, we need to make things move at the bottom, so our initiative can work its way to the top.

Presenting to your local council

To address your council either in-person, on video, or by phone, do the following:

Submit your request to present.
Prepare and practice your presentation (just as you did in school!)
At the council meeting when it’s your turn, introduce yourself and state the purpose of your speech.
Express your position clearly with the reasons backed by supporting facts/data.
Be professional in your tone and demeanor, but also let your passion for the cause come through!
Answer any questions the council may have and thank them for their consideration of your proposal.

Ms Rojas additionally suggests you (and others in your group) write to the councillors soon after the presentation, just so they know you are watching!

Repeated presentations to city councils make it clear we mean business and demand action!

But what do I say?!?!

You don’t need to say much (usually you only have 3-5 minutes). However, you need to speak clearly and forcefully. You also need to have your points well-organized so your audience easily understands your message.

As for subject matter, there is plenty you have to work with:

Talk about
Talk about
Talk about
Talk about
Talk about

Districts you can speak at

Below are listed with links, the process to follow to make such deliveries to specific jurisdictions. (If you want your area listed here with details on how to contact your council, just email our researching webmaintainer with your city’s location.)

Remember that some districts let you speak on the same topic at each meeting you attend. Keep the fireworks issue in their minds! Repetition can eventually lead to action! Or as Ms Rojas says, “Be the squeaky wheel!”

The listings below are in alphabetical order:

Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD), BC: The CVRD holds Public Hearings whose purpose is “for the public to present their views and opinions on a proposed bylaw amendment”. These can be attend electronically or in person. For more information, go to Public Hearings & Information Meetings or contact them by email.
Saanich, BC: There are many ways to address the council regarding any matter of interest to this municipalty. An organization must submit an Application to Appear as a Delegation to present at the whole meeting, but an individual speaker can speak in their open forum for 3 minutes (in-person or by phone) without pre-registration by emailing council@saanich.ca or calling 250-475-5501 prior to 12pm. You can also submit your views to the council by email without attending the meeting.
Victoria (City of), BC: This City holds regular meetings which can be attended by the public and be viewed live/recorded stream. The schedule of upcoming meetings and links to past meetings are also available. Here are the details on how to submit a request to address the Council which can be done in person or online. Speakers are limited to 5 minutes and participation can be done in person, on video, by phone.

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Helpful Alliances

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 12:54:36 -0700

This section lists actual and potential alliances with groups, organizations and individuals who want to end fireworks displays. There is strength in numbers and working together we can achieve the goal we all seek.

Who Should Support Us

Law Enforcement

Firework displays cause many problems that violate more than common decency:

the noise is a disturbance of the peace (no different than playing loud rock music at 2am)
the debris is a hazard to public cleanliness (no different than littering)
the toxins are a danger to public health (no different than dumping chemicals on the street)
the vandalism is a peril to property (no different than defacing premises)
the hooligans are a menace to everyone (no different than letting terrorists run rampant)

The above are not merely harmless celebrations. They are illegal acts of violence:
People got stupid with fireworks all over Toronto on Victoria Day
Delta police investigating fireworks-involved assaults after Halloween gathering

They need to be seen exactly as such and not euphemized into oblivion!

Law enforcement would concur. For instance, a sent from the Victoria Police Department not only deplores the plight of the community forced to endure this illegal behavior since they have to respond to complaints, the letter also “support the exploration of legislative changes that result in improved community safety and well-being.”

The police are on our side on this important issue and we should work with them to bring about change!

Environmental Preservation

There are various environment groups who try to stop damage to our planet and local communities. One area they could be encouraged to take action on is stopping fireworks. There is pollution of various sorts other than just the noise including debris and toxins.

A group that should support the cause is the Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA). Their mandate states:

CELA works toward protecting public health and the environment by seeking justice for those harmed by pollution or poor decision-making and by changing policies to prevent problems in the first place. Since 1970, CELA has used legal tools, conducted public legal education, undertaken groundbreaking research, and advocated for increased environmental protection and to safeguard communities … CELA places high priority on cases, public legal education, and law reform work aimed at ensuring safe, healthy, and livable communities.

Dr. Terry Gordon, Professor of Environmental Medicine at NYU certainly thinks that CELA’s “Policy Development is appropriate for your ideas [recognizing fireworks to be an environmental hazard] and those ideas have to start somewhere.”

Another group that would support banning fireworks would be firefighter associations since they have to deal with the disasters often at the risk of their own lives.

Animal Protection

There are various types of organizations that work to help animals in various ways such as hardcore animal rights defenders, existence improvement welfare institutions, wildlife rescue and rehabilitators, domestic advocates. All these groups should have a common interest to eliminate fireworks.

For instance, the Vancouver Humane Society is sharing Government of Canada petition e-4351 for a fireworks ban encouraging their members to sign it. They also have in their news/blog: 5 reasons to skip fireworks this Halloween & 3 steps to protect animals.

The BCSPCA is a longterm advocate against fireworks exposing the dangers to pets, farm animals, wildlife and people and has provided this .

The Fur-bearers organization has several articles on keeping animals safe during fireworks displays.

Those who protect animals should be staunch allies in the effort to end fireworks.

Human Safety

Fireworks are dangerous!

Here is an excerpt from a presentation given to the Victoria City Council:

8000 children are injured in North America each year and 20 people will die as a result of fireworks. The Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program states that fireworks injuries are most frequently in males under the age of 19. The risk is highest for children ages 5-14. Most common injuries are burns, followed by head, eye and hand injuries. 65% of all fireworks injuries are to bystanders, and (3/4) of injuries require medical treatment in emergency departments. More than 80% of emergency room fireworks injuries involve fireworks that consumers are permitted to use.

Fireworks are not that different from dynamite and people have actually died through their use.

Here is a List of fireworks accidents and incidents from 1869-2023. Check out these 2 CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission in the USA) 2019 Fireworks Annual Report and 2021 Annual Fireworks Report as examples of the very real nature of the danger!

There are many organizations related to healthcare and safety of adults and children who want an end to these displays.

Fiscal Responsibility

Emergency response, tax dollars spent on police enforcement, healthcare due to injuries sustained, etc etc! It’s enough to make any government or business comptroller cringe!

Fireworks cost a lot to begin with with a 3 fold profit margin:

In the 21st century, consumer fireworks revenue slowly and steadily ticked up from $407 million in 2000 to $1 billion in 2019. In a single year, that number nearly doubled to $1.9 billion in 2020 and then jumped to $2.2 billion in 2021.
How Much Do Americans Spend on Fireworks?

However, the eventual cost to society for this expensive ’entertainment' is staggering! Consider the drop of costs associated with Halloween fireworks in Vancouver after the ban was implemented:

Over Halloween weekend in 2020, the service reported a total dollar loss for fireworks-related incidents to $408,000 … This year, that figure dropped to just $5,500.
Halloween fire costs plunge in Vancouver in first year of firework ban

Insurance companies would no doubt prefer not to deal with the fallout from fireworks:

Given that fireworks caused 19,500 fires in 2018, including 1,900 structure fires and $105 million in direct property damage, claims are a real risk.
Is Firework Damage Covered?

Fireworks are far more expensive that they appear to be and those who have to cover the costs would like to see an end to this damaging practice.

Who Are Supporting Us

If you support this initiative to ban fireworks locally and/or nationally, please send a confirming email to our accepting webmaintainer giving us permission to post your organization’s logo here. It will be linked back to your website so people can find out more about your organization, but you are welcome to include a small blurb as well.

The Animal Defence & Anti-Vivisection Society of British Columbia (ADAV), established by a veterinary surgeon in 1927, is a peaceful, grassroots organization committed to the abolition of vivisection on moral, ethical and scientific grounds.

Animal Justice leads the legal fight for animals in Canada. Our lawyers work to pass strong new animal protection laws, push to hold industries accountable for abusing animals, and fight on behalf of animals in court.

Defending Horses, because they can’t defend themselves! The Canadian Horse Defence Coalition (CHDC) is a registered not-for-profit organization working towards ending horse slaughter and the live export of horses for slaughter for human consumption.

Established in 1953, The Fur-Bearers is a charitable, non-partisan organization whose goals are to end the commercial fur trade and promote solutions for wildlife coexistence in communities.

Voice for Animals is a registered, non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of animals in a wide range of circumstances. Our focus is on local and province wide issues but our motto could be “think globally, act locally”.

TowardsFreedom supports the right of every being to a pollution-free life. Hence, we strongly endorse the efforts of this group to ban fireworks!

More coming soon …

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Resources

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 14:46:47 -0800

Here are some resources that may be of use for those actively seeking to stop fireworks frustration.

Fireworks Frustration Graphics

If you want to distribute the Fireworks Frustration card so others can visit this website, it is available in many forms:

Item	png format	pdf format
Small (social media)	png	pdf
Lettersize flyer	png	pdf
Legalsize flyer	png	pdf
Cards (set of 10)	png	pdf

Additionally, here is a sample letter you can give to a fellow fireworks frustrator who wants to help distribute the above items.

Want it all?!! Get it ALL as pdf.

Elists

Our bi-weekly newsletter can keep you in the know about efforts to ban fireworks! To stay up-to-date, subscribe to:

SayNoToFireworks News

There is also an email discussion group that anyone who Says No To Fireworks and wants to actively do something about it, can join. Just click on the link below to join:

SayNoToFireworks Muse

Once you are accepted in the discussion group, you will receive a welcome email with instructions on how to

send to the list
alter settings (eg signature, daily digest)
contact admin for help
unsubscribe (if you wish to)

To view the archives (and do some things), you will need to setup an account (it’s free).

On this discussion group, aintain proper email etiquette and post sensibly:

when starting a thread always have a useful subject field (so everyone knows what your post is about)
when replying never change the subject field (your post won’t get threaded properly if you do)

(Please know that the Muse is mercilessly moderated. If you are a troll, cyberbully, hostile or performer of La Triviata, you will not survive here for long.)

For either elist, if you have any difficulties signing up or do not receive your welcome email, contact our troubleshooting webmaintainer!

Sample Letters for Ban

Below are possible sample letters to politicians insisting fireworks be banned. Depending on the mood you are in, they may provide some guidance in creating your own.

Courteous

Dear Director, I wish to convey to you my request that our district implement a ban of fireworks displays as soon as possible. Fireworks are, after all, hazardous to the health of both animals and people. The noise, light flashes, debris and chemical pollution are things we would be happy to do without! So would the wildlife and our pets! In fact, our dog hides under the table when the fireworks go off. Our community looks forward to your prompt action on this matter. Much appreciated!

Pleasant

Dear Director, I would appreciate your efforts on implementing a ban on fireworks discharge in our fine community. Though these events take place officially only 3 times a year, those times are indeed trying for many of us. The noise is very disturbing especially to those who have PTSD and the light flashes can be quite frightening. I’m sure you know these displays are bad for wildlife, farm animals and pets too! For instance, our cat becomes quite traumatized during these displays. Surely there are other ways we can celebrate these special days! Thank you again for your consideration of this matter.

Friendly

Howdy Director, Hope you are having a fine day! I am writing to you to see if a ban on fireworks could be arranged. I know it’s only 3 times a year, but those 3 nights are really unpleasant for some of us! They probably may be for you as well. After all, who wants to hear the snap, crackle, pop at 2 am in the morning? Some of us are really trying to sleep. There are plenty of other ways to celebrate, so please see if you can get fireworks displays to stop happening in our community. Thank you!

Urgent

Attention: Director! Please ban fireworks displays right away! The noise is bad enough on the 3 occasions they are permitted, but many people keep at it even after those nights. They are inconsiderate! Decent folks should not have to endure such noise and light displays into the early hours of the morning. The wildlife and farm animals are terrified! I know that some horses have done serious damage to themselves because the noise makes them panic. Many people especially those with PTSD find it very difficult! Let’s get this show off the road immediately!

Sycophantic

Impressive Director! You know how much I deeply admire your excellent work for all these months and years! That is why I have the greatest confidence that you will come to our rescue, yet again, and push through a ban on fireworks displays with the help of your equally fine colleagues! Knowing how much you care for your subjects in this constituency, I have no doubts that you have the considerable capability to make sure that the loyal members of our wonderful community will not be forced to endure another night of explosives which deafen and blind us. Your people shall suffer no more thanks to you my dedicated Director!

Expletory

Yo! Director!! What the BLEEP is BLEEPING BLEEP BLEEP?!!! Who’s BLEEPING this BLEEPING BLEEP to BLEEPING keep BLEEP BLEEPING night after BLEEPING night!! BLEEPING stop these BLEEPING fireworks BLEEP BLEEP!! BLEEPING BLEEP makes me BLEEPING BLEEP!!! They make us all BLEEPING BLEEP!!!!!! Don’t want BLEEPING noise! Don’t want BLEEPING flashes!! Don’t want the BLEEPING BLEEPING BLEEP BLEEP!!! Do the BLEEP BLEEP BLEEP about it!!!
[Editorial Note: This technique though energetically enthusiastic may not be cryptically comprehensible and rather BLEEPINGLY BLEEPHAMOUS.]

How to ban fireworks in your community

The following is a set of guidelines produced by OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
Commentary is included in [].
Tasks are listed with bullets.

To ban fireworks in your jurisdiction, you would typically need to follow a legal process that involves several steps. Keep in mind that the specific procedure may vary depending on your country, state, or local laws. Here are some general steps to consider:

Research local laws: Begin by researching the existing laws and regulations regarding fireworks in your jurisdiction. This will help you understand the legal framework and any specific requirements or restrictions in place.
- Look up the laws of your municipality, prov/state, country.
Identify the appropriate authority: Determine which governmental body or authority has the power to enact or amend laws related to fireworks. It could be a city council, county government, state legislature, or other relevant authority.
- Find out who your politicians are and whether they support a ban
- If they support a ban, support them; if they don’t convince them or support one who does!
Build a case: Gather information and evidence that supports your argument for banning fireworks. This may include data on accidents, injuries, property damage, environmental concerns, or public safety risks associated with fireworks. Research the experiences of other jurisdictions that have implemented fireworks bans and gather statistics or studies that demonstrate the negative impact of fireworks.
- Produce a detailed but concise case document with appropriate data to justify the ban.
- Put this document along with other information on a website for easy access.
Form a coalition: Reach out to like-minded individuals or organizations in your community who are concerned about the use of fireworks. Building a coalition of supporters can help amplify your message and increase your chances of success. This could include residents, neighborhood associations, environmental groups, animal welfare organizations, or medical professionals, among others. [The coalition members need not be only local. Very valuable ideas and support can be found from beyond your immediate jurisdiction.]
- Form a small core (6-9) of dedicated individuals who have stamina and determination to do most of the initial work and bring others in.
- Add members to the group who are willing to write letters or speak at meetings.
- Invite organizations such as PTSD, animal protection, businesses etc to support the effort.
Draft a proposal or ordinance: Prepare a formal proposal or ordinance that outlines the specifics of the fireworks ban. Include the reasons for the ban, the proposed penalties for non-compliance, and any exceptions or alternatives you deem necessary. Ensure that your proposal aligns with the existing legal framework and is well-drafted to withstand scrutiny.
- Create a proposal to guide the politicians into making a law banning fireworks.
Engage with local authorities: Present your proposal or ordinance to the relevant authority responsible for implementing laws in your jurisdiction. This may involve attending council meetings, writing letters to elected officials, or requesting a meeting to discuss your concerns. Be prepared to answer questions and address any objections that may arise. [An excellent example of this engagement was the 23-01-12 City of Victoria Council Meeting where 4 individuals made presentations (D.6-9) to implement a ban on fireworks.]
- Support a politician to push the proposal through proper channels.
Public outreach and education: Conduct public outreach and education campaigns to raise awareness about the issues associated with fireworks. Use social media, local news outlets, community meetings, and other platforms to inform the public about your concerns and the benefits of a fireworks ban. Encourage community members to voice their support for the ban through petitions, letters, or public testimony. [Many people don’t want fireworks, but don’t realize it can be stopped. They just accept it as a so-called fact of life. Educating them about their rights to a pollution-free existence as well as celebration alternatives will result in an organized force which politicians will listen to!]
- Educate the public about the proposed ban through flyers, public meetings, your website, letters to the media etc.
- Encourage residents’ associations to take a stand (see this email as an example)
Advocate for the ban: Continue to advocate for the ban by maintaining regular communication with local authorities, attending relevant meetings or hearings, and keeping the issue in the public eye. Respond to any opposition or concerns with well-reasoned arguments and evidence. [One of the arguments against a ban is that it would be difficult to enforce. While enforcement may seem daunting to some extent, one should realize that it needn’t only take the form of police hunting down violators, giving warnings, levying fines, effecting incarceration … ! A ban gives individuals solid legal ground from which to voice displeasure and knowing that your discharges are ticking off your neighbors can be a motivating deterent.]
- Support your politician to push the ban through.
- Encourage your neighbors and others to support the ban by taking action such as writing letters to politicians and media regularly.
- Create an environment where fireworks are viewed as being unpopular hazards that no one should have to put up with.
Monitor progress: Stay informed about the progress of your proposal or ordinance and remain engaged in the process. Understand that implementing a ban may take time and may require multiple stages of review or public input. [While the bureaucratic churnings proceed in the right direction, realize that expressing your personal opposition to fireworks makes the activity socially unpopular and often does the job before and after the ban comes into place. Unpopularity was one of the weapons utilized by the Non-Smokers Rights Association in the 1970s.]
- Publish status of the proposal on your website and media by consulting with your politician.
- Keep your supporters aware of the progress made.
Celebrate success or regroup: If your efforts are successful and a fireworks ban is enacted, celebrate the accomplishment. However, if your proposal does not receive support initially, assess the reasons and consider modifying your approach, gathering more evidence, or seeking additional support to try again in the future. [Even if your efforts are successful, stay vigilant! Inconsiderate people always try to get away with selfish acts despite knowing the harm they cause. Some will keep trying to have the ban removed. An example of such lobbying is the effort by the CNFA to reverse the Brampton fireworks ban using the stale unenforceable argument.]
- Keep the successful implementation of the ban in everyone’s mind through the website and media.
- Acknowledge the community effort.
- Have people stay vigilant to illegal fireworks as well as efforts by unscrupulous individuals to overturn the ban.

Remember that this is a general outline, and the process may vary in different jurisdictions. It’s important to consult with legal experts or local authorities for specific guidance relevant to your area.

Artworks

Various artists are welcome to display their talents as related to fireworks frustrations here. We will provide blurb about you and a link back to your site, so people can see what else you do. If you want to display your work, please contact our aesthetic webmaintainer.

Twyla Francois

I’m a vegan animal cruelty investigator and artist.

See more of Twyla’s work at her website and visit her on Facebook at Twyla Francois Art & Investigation.

Bianca Xunise

Published in Times Colonist 2025-07-27

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Problems and Solutions

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 22:22:32 -0800

Specific problems such as pollution and health issues are presented followed by some solutions.

The Problems

Fireworks are not merely a fun activity for people to enjoy. These displays, even when carefully monitored, can be a menace to animals and people in many ways. Fireworks discharge are a pollution problem in 3 main areas: noise, light, and debris.

Noise pollution

Loud explosions can be terrifying for wildlife, livestock and pets. At best they are a nuisance to people who at least understand what is going on, but can be severely traumatic to many who are trying to sleep or have high sensitivities. In some situations, the anxiety can be fatal.

Additionally, sound of fireworks can trigger PTSD in some individuals who have been in war situations. While PTSD triggering is unavoidable in some cases, replicating the noises of war seems unnecessary and callous to do just ‘for fun’.

Light pollution

Bright bursts of light can cause wildlife, livestock and pets to panic. These can also trigger seizures in some people.

Debris pollution

Debris from fireworks discharge can be macro (containers, paper holders, metal from sparklers etc) or micro (smoke, agent toxins such as nitric oxide, aluminum-bromide-arsenic-lead-barium contaminants). Both can result in health issues (including death) for individuals who encounter them.

Chemical pollution

Various health hazards outlined in petition e-4351:

The chemical analysis is worrisome: 0.5% of the total weight of a consumer display could be lead or arsenic;
Dr. Terry Gordon states “although people are only exposed to these substances for a short time each year, they are much more toxic than the pollutants we breathe every day”;
A study by the Canadian Environmental Law Association and the Ontario College of Family Physicians states that the surface has only been scratched in understanding how detrimental toxic environmental it is;

The Solutions

There are certain things that can be done to reduce or eliminate the detrimental effect of fireworks.

Defense

These are some solutions to protect oneself, our children and our animals (though not wildlife):

heavy curtains or eye shades to protect against the bright flashes
ear protection to reduce the sound
a gas mask to deal with the fumes and particulate matter

You can also build and retreat yourself, your pets and livestock into a bunker for certain safety. By all means, reduce your personal freedom, so others can have theirs to set off fireworks at their whim!

Or …

The Best Defense is Offense

Be pro-active and even pre-emptive:

get your politicians to pass laws banning the sale and discharge of fireworks (see Presenting To Politicians)
get your community educated on the fireworks issue (see A Ban Done Fireworks)
get your neighbors to realize they have a right not to be bombarded (see Charge of the Right Brigade)
get your law enforcement to be aware of illegal fireworks discharge (see Pilgrim’s Process)

The Sounds of Silence

Low noise fireworks (aka silent fireworks) are partial remedy to snap, crackle, pop. These contain less flash powder and the actual noise is greatly reduced providing some measure of relief to wildlife, pets, children and veterans. They have been adopted by many places in Canada, Europe and UK. See the article Silent Fireworks Promise Relief. They have been around for 3 decades, produce half the noise output and there are no good reasons not to use them instead of the usual as this article, Low-Noise Fireworks Exist, So Why Won’t We Use Them?, points out. However, they are still a disturbance and hazardous.

A more spectacular alternate is the Drone Show. These may eventually replace fireworks for a variety of reasons as this article, Drone Light Shows “Way Cooler” Than Fireworks, in Forbes explains. Articles on these alternatives can be found in our Media Articles section under The Drone Show. While drone shows are a definite improvement (in both reducing the pollution and long-term financial costs), we should explore this possibility and as Lesley Fox of The Fur-bearers says, “strive for shows that cause the least amount of harm”.

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

FAQ

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:28:17 -0800

Here we provide questions and answers to matters regarding fireworks.

If you have a question, you’d like to see answered here, please email it to our frequently asked webmaintainer.

I want fireworks banned! What can I do to make this happen?

Send emails to:

CVRD (Cowichan Valley Regional District) [legislativeservices@cvrd.bc.ca](mailto:legislativeservices@cvrd.bc.ca?subject=Please Ban Fireworks!)
CVD (City of Victoria) [mayorandcouncil@victoria.ca](mailto:mayorandcouncil@victoria.ca?subject=Please Ban Fireworks!)
(Don’t know what to write? Check out some sample letters.)

Canada-wide, sign petition e4351.
Note that the petition additionally outlines some serious health issues highlighted by various physicians and anti-pollution groups and is quite instructive!

Subscribe to the bi-weekly SayNoToFireworks Newsletter to be in the know about what is going on!

How do I report illegal fireworks discharge?

To report unlawful fireworks discharge:

in the CVRD contact:

250.746.2655 (Electoral Areas, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan)
250.746.3266 (North Cowichan)

in the Victoria area contact:

250.475.1775 (Saanich)
250.995.7654 (City of Victoria)

What are the problems associated with fireworks discharge?

There are 3 primary areas: noise, light, debris. All these can be hazardous to animal and human well-being. Additionally, users of fireworks can experience injuries or even death. For more detail, see the section Problems and Solutions.

What are some solutions to dealing with fireworks?

You can play defense by using heavy curtains, eye shades, ear plugs and even a gas mask! Unfortunately, these measures do not protect your pets, livestock or the wildlife. Alternately, you can be pro-active and educate your politicians and community to this threat to well-being and try to lobby for laws to ban fireworks. For more detail, see the section Problems and Solutions.

What penalties are in place in the CVRD for illegal fireworks activities?

The CVRD does not allow the sale of fireworks in its jurisdiction. The present fine for illegal sales is $750. Illegal (without license) discharge fine is set at $250. For more information, see CVRD Guidelines.

Is a ban on fireworks even practical?

Of course. Those who claim a ban would be difficult to enforce therefore don’t ban fireworks, are simply avoiding the problem. You need something to enforce in order to enforce it. If you have nothing, you accomplish nothing. Ian MacDonald who is the CVRD manager of building inspection and bylaw enforcement said that ‘a total ban would be easier to enforce’ and (former) director Lori Iannidinardo pointed out that a ban ‘would make it clear to everyone what the rules around fireworks are’.

What a ban accomplishes is to put the law on our side.

How can you stop fireworks so long as people are allowed to sell them?

The problem isn’t with the sellers. The problem is with the buyers.

In the 1970s, the Non-Smokers Rights Association didn’t try to stop the sale of cigarettes or stop people from smoking. What they did was to make smoking unpopular by making it clear to non-smokers that their right to clean air overrode a smoker’s right to pollute it.

We can utilize a similar approach with fireworks. There is no need to stop the sale of fireworks. There is a need to eliminate the opportunity to set them off (ie a ban) and to make those engaged in such activities unpopular. Law enforcement may not always be able to catch the violator, but for most people it’s not nice to know the neighbors are ticked off.

When there are no buyers, the sellers will disappear too.

But it is only 3 times a year! Shouldn’t we be tolerant?

No. Those 3 times are severely traumatic for many people, pets, livestock and wildlife (sometimes even causing deaths). We wouldn’t permit car racing on our streets 3 times a year, permit robbery 3 times a year, permit assault 3 times a year. These destructive displays are 3 too many! What is even worse is that the more one tolerates, the worse it gets: in some places, where action is not taken, fireworks can go on for weeks. Tolerance of the abominable is itself an abomination.

Are there media articles regarding opposition to fireworks?

Quite a few actually. Some of them relate directly to a possible fireworks ban in the CVRD. They are available in the News Articles section which is continuously updated.

What are some alternatives to fireworks displays?

Peace and quiet might be nice. There are also ‘silent’ fireworks and drone shows. Articles on both may be found in our Media section under The Sounds of Silence.

Is there any scientific research available on the harm fireworks cause?

You will find journal articles and other documentation in our Research Papers section which is frequently updated.

We ask people to send us their unfortunate encounters with fireworks in the Stories section. Just fill out the form from there and we’ll take care of the rest!

Where can I talk to sensible like-minded people who don’t want fireworks?

You can find groups to join in our Websites and Social Media.

You can also join our Elists where we communicate via email.

How can I let others know about this site?

Here are some things you can do to inform others about this site:

send them the link: towardsfreedom.com/ff
distribute the Fireworks Frustration Graphics
- physically by card or flyer
- electronically on social media using the image file

Do you have a comprehensive Plan Of Action to follow to ban fireworks?

Yes we do! Check in our Resources section:
How to ban fireworks in your community

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Stories

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:25:03 -0800

Personal experiences with fireworks and those discharging them will be collected here. These can include not only bad experiences, but also ones on how a community stopped fireworks displays.

You can send us your story by filling out the form by clicking here.

If accepted, you will see it printed below. Please provide a general location (eg city or district). If you want your name published, please provide it as well (otherwise your story will be posted as anonymous).

Definitely do not enjoy the 3 times a year residential areas of the community are available to set off fireworks. I have a 12 year old chocolate lab who seems to have super sonic hearing for the sounds of the fireworks. To see her cuddled into a corner of the room trembling with slobber pouring out of her mouth is heartbreaking. No matter how loud the tv is and the prescriptions I give her do not have any effect on her. This is just my dog , how many other pets , livestock and wildlife are affected by this preventable nonsense. Please help to stop this cruelty to pets livestock and wild animals. CVRD this is now in your hands.
(Bruce, Shawnigan Lake BC)

Almost 2 years ago my best buddy, a beautiful St. Bernard + Great Pyrenees Cross named Kippy came into my life. He took his self- imposed job of guarding me seriously. He adapted to city life, with its ambulance sirens and other noises very well - except for fireworks! It seems that some people in Victoria like to “celebrate” every occasion, from New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, May Day, Canada Day, US Independence Day, parties at the beginning of classes at UVic, Halloween, you name it and for any excuse day, with ear-splitting explosions at irregular intervals. My poor dog is totally traumatized and goes into a psychotic state panting to the point of choking, circling around the room endlessly and uncontrollably for hours, throughout the night and then for days following, despite all the prescription drugs and calming treats that might knock him out for short periods. That means that those times are ruined for me too and impact my health.
Maybe it’s a fun thing for some children to be allowed to play with fireworks from the late afternoon onwards before their parents start up later again in the evening, but that is short-sighted. There is no reason a few people should be allowed to spoil celebrations for others. It really does need to be made illegal AND enforced. Are we not civilized?
(Maidie, Victoria BC)

Fireworks is pollution! Particulate pollution, light pollution, and most importantly noise pollution! No one needs this snap crackle pop which is harmful to animal and people.
Stop These Obnoxious Pyrotechnics!
(prad, Shawnigan Lake BC)

Our cat Ophelia has been spooked by fireworks. I’ve seen her look startled and dart to a hiding spot to stay safe. So I’ve seen that the stress caused by fireworks is real. And it is unnecessary. This New Year’s my husband and I were awakened and couldn’t get back to sleep because of the noise of fireworks in our neighborhoods. Many neighbors complained of the same experience.So fireworks can cause really unhealthy disruptions for many.
(Ranjana, Shawnigan Lake BC)

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Research Papers

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:22:58 -0800

Various journal papers regarding the effects of fireworks will be presented in this section.

Credit: our non-resident researcher Angelkate.

The items will contain abstract, content and conclusion excerpts in italics. Any commentary will be shown inside [].

Animals

This section covers papers related to fireworks and adverse effects on animals.

Owner perceptions and management of the adverse behavioural effects of fireworks on companion animals
[This is a 2019 paper published in New Zealand Veterinary Journal which provides a survey form.]
This anonymous survey will gather information about your animal(s) experiences with fireworksto help the SPCA and the New Zealand Companion Animal Council better understand the impactthat they may have on our animals.

Fear expressions of dogs during New Year fireworks: a video analysis
A high proportion of pet dogs show fear-related behavioural problems, with noise fears being most prevalent. Nonetheless, few studies have objectively evaluated fear expression in this species. Using owner-provided video recordings, we coded behavioural expressions of pet dogs during a real-life firework situation at New Year’s Eve and compared them to behaviour of the same dogs on a different evening without fireworks … in this case ﬁrework noises, which are perceived as threatening by many dogs), action tendency (e.g. escape attempts), and a variety of diﬀerent expressive behaviours, may constitute the best method to infer the likely underlying emotion experienced by nonhuman animals.

A survey of owners’ perceptions of fear of fireworks in a sample of dogs and cats in New Zealand
To establish reliable information regarding the behav-ioural responses of dogs and cats to ﬁreworks in New Zealand … Owner-reported increase in fearful response over time for comforted animals may indicate a negative impact on the longer-term psychological welfare of their animal.

Birds flee en mass from New Year’s Eve fireworks
Fireworks are an important part of celebrations worldwide, and although humans often ﬁnd ﬁreworks spectacular, ﬁreworks are probably perceived quite differently by wild animals … A recent event which has attracted a great deal of media attention is the sudden and mass mortality of thousands of red-winged blackbirds that fell out of the sky in Beebe Arkansas on New Year’s Eve 2010 … Additional reports of birds mysteriously falling from the sky canbe found in the media right around New Year’s Eve. Our study is just one example of a clear and large-scale behavioral re-sponse of birds to ﬁreworks, a very speciﬁc form of disturbance.

Effects of severe anthropogenic disturbance on the heart rate and body temperature in free-living greylag geese
Anthropogenic disturbances are a major concern for the welfare and conservation of wildlife. We recorded heart rate and body temperature of 20 free-living greylag geese in response to a major regularly re-occurring anthropogenic disturbance-New Year’s Eve fireworks. Heart rate and body temperature were significantly higher in the first and second hour of the new year, compared with the same hour on the 31st of December, the average during December and the average during January … To conclude, our results show that New Year’s Eve fireworks cause a substantial physiological response, indicative of a stress response in greylag geese, which is costly in terms of energy expenditure.

The Impact of Noise Anxiety on Behavior and Welfare of Horses from UK and US Owner’s Perspective.
Noise anxiety is an over-reaction to loud noises commonly detected among pets and can greatly impact on their welfare and on their management. When exposed to noisy events, horses can show intense escape attempts, which may cause severe accidents for the horse and the rider/handler. The aim of the present study was to investigate, through a web survey, UK and US owners’ perception of noise anxiety severity in their horses, their management strategies and perceived efficacy.

Humane Protection of Animals Against the Effects of Fireworks Displays
Its subject is the humane protection of animals, expressly declared by the Polish legislator in the provisions of the Animal Protection Act, as regarded in the context of wide access to individual use of fireworks by private persons. The author seeks an answer to the question whether the legislator’s high-sounding declarations expressed in the Animal Protection Act, providing for humane protection of animals in Poland, are reflected in respective national or local regulations which would make it possible for the owners or guardians of animals to protect them against the effects of fireworks, especially against noise.

Effectiveness of treatments for firework fears in dogs
An online questionnaire survey investigated (1) management and (2) treatment methods for firework fears in dogs used by dog owners and their (perceived) effectiveness. A Principal Components Analysis on data from 1,225 respondents revealed four management strategies (i.e., interventions during firework exposure): the principal components are “environmental modification” (e.g., providing a hiding place, keeping windows and blinds closed, and playing music), “feed/play” (providing the dog with chews, play, and food during fireworks in general, as well as contingent on loud bangs), “alternative” (use of calming nutraceuticals, pheromones, herbal products, homeopathic products, Bach flowers, and essential oils), and “interaction” (allowing body contact, petting, and talking to the dog when loud bangs occurred). To explore possible effects of these management methods on fear development, the components were correlated with a score for fear progression. Of the four components, only “feed/play” was statistically associated with an improvement in fear responses to fireworks.

Extra-auditory effects of noise in laboratory animals: the relationship between noise and sleep
Noise has both auditory and extra-auditory effects. Some of the most deleterious extra-auditory effects of noise are those leading to sleep disturbances. These disturbances seem to be related to both endogenous (physical parameters) and exogenous (sex, age) factors of noise. [Understandably, the relationship between noise and sleep deprivation can be extrapolated to humans.]

Anthropogenic noise as a stressor in animals: a multidisciplinary perspective
Consequences of extreme noise exposure are obvious and usually taken into some consideration inthe management of many human activities that affect either human or animal populations. However,the more subtle effects such as masking, annoyance and changes in behavior are often overlooked,especially in animals, because these subtleties can be very difficult to detect … Young animals may be particularly sensitive to stressors for a number of reasons includingthe sensitivity of their still-developing brains. Additionally, short exposure to stressors may result inlong-term consequences.

Effect Of Noise On Performance, Stress, And Behaviour Of Animals
This paper summarises the auditory range and some typical levels of sound that have been recorded for farm animals inside and outside housing, during transport and lairage stay. effects of continuous and sudden noise on animals are also presented in detail. More physiological and behavioural responses have been described as increased hormonal production, increased heart rate, and reduction in production.

How and why environmental noise impacts animals: an integrative, mechanistic review
The scope and magnitude of anthropogenic noise pollution are often much greater than those of natural noise and are predicted to have an array of deleterious effects on wildlife. Recent work on this topic has focused mainly on behavioural responses of animals exposed to noise.

Noise-Related Stress and Marine Mammals: An Introduction
Marine mammals (especially cetaceans) use sound as their primary sen-sory input for social communication, foraging, and other vital life-processes.Background noise has the potential to interfere with these functions by maskingnormal sounds, and at least some noise sources have been linked to behavioral andphysiological responses (with lethal and non-lethal consequences).

People

Accidental death involving professional fireworks

Deaths and hospitalisation from fireworks injuries

Fireworks and PTSD

July 4 fireworks can trigger PTSD in veterans

Pollution

Effects of Independence Day fireworks on atmospheric concentrations of fine particulate matter in the United States
Dian J. Seidel, Abigail N. Birnbaum
Previous case studies have documented increases in air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), during and following fireworks displays associated with various holidays and celebrations around the world. But no study to date has explored fireworks effects on air quality over large regions using systematic observations over multiple years to estimate typical regional PM increases…

Air Pollution Due To Fireworks During Diwali In Delhi

Air pollution from fireworks during festival of lights (Deepawali) in Howrah, India - a case study

Effect of Fireworks, Chinese New Year and the COVID-19 Lockdown on Air Pollution and Public Attitudes

An Initiative towards Saving Environment – Clean and Green Fireworks
Fireworks are an environmental disaster. A single firework can involve dozens of separate explosions. A report estimated that after the firework display event, the pollution level of the area was found to be 500 times more than the normal and persisted there for more than a week in form of dust, suspended metal particulates etc.All those pretty colors come from added chemicals, and they leave deadly toxins and harmful gases in the environment. As we know, reds are the product of strontium and lithium; copper burns blue and releases dioxins, which cause cancer; radioactive barium produces sparkly greens. In this paper harms caused by fireworks and possible remedies are discussed.

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Media

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:20:11 -0800

Various media related to fireworks will be gathered here. The items will contain quoted excerpts in italics. Any editorial commentary will be shown inside [].

Fireworks Hurt
Our mission is to encourage the Nova Scotia Government to enact a ban on the sale and use of consumer fireworks.

Ban Fireworks
Let’s get as many to join as we can and I will personally drive to number 10 and get them twats to listen … it’s easy to ban fireworks … BUT they like the tax so it’s gonna be hard work.
[This is a Facebook group with 100+ members.]

THE FIREWORK CAMPAIGN UK
Campaigning to reform UK firework legislation

Our site has both a newsletter and discussion Elists anyone is welcome to join.

Silent Fireworks

They really aren’t silent, but the noise level is reduced by half. So does that make them twice as good as regular fireworks? Not likely! However, if you insist on setting off fireworks, these are a way of being nominally more considerate to your neighbors which include both humans and animals.

Silent Fireworks: How Good Are They & What Are They?
Soundproof Panda
Not everyone likes the bangs, whistles and screeches of fireworks. For some people and most animals, the unexpected loud noises cause a lot of fear and anxiety turning a fun firework display into a nightmare.

It’s time for silent fireworks
Jane Desmond, The Hill
In the first half of June in N.Y.C., for example, the city received 80 times the number of fireworks complaints this year than last.

‘Quiet Fireworks’ Promise Relief for Children and Animals
Steph Yin, The New York Times
A new genre of fireworks displays caters to audiences that can do without the noise, but they will be hard to find this Fourth of July …
[An article from June 2016.]

The Drone Show

Drone displays may be an intelligent and definitely more spectacular alternative to the snap-crackle-pop stuff and cost effective in the long run. They are worth exploring as a replacement to fireworks because they are likely not as harmful to our communities of humans and animals.

Drone Light Shows “Way Cooler” Than Fireworks
GrrlScientistSenior Contributor
Drone light shows differ from fireworks displays because drones are reusable, and do not produce chemical and noise pollution.

Are Drones Replacing Fireworks?
RocketIt With environmental hazards, increasing costs and state-wide bans now forcing many areas to cease Fourth of July fireworks displays, it’s difficult to argue that this age-old tradition isn’t in need of a 21st century overhaul.

Some Drone Videos on YouTube.

The Future of Fireworks

400ft Tall Halloween Light and Drone Show!

Paramount+ Drone Show at Vivid Sydney

1000 Drones Flying at Burning Man 2022

Seattle’s virtual New Year’s at the Needle show

News Articles

Below are media articles from various sources organized by year.

2024

Germany: Police and doctors urge national fireworks ban
SOCIETYGERMANY, 24-12-31
German police and medical associations have repeated calls for a nationwide ban on the private use of fireworks, citing their reckless and dangerous use around New Year celebrations.

Pennsylvania man killed when fireworks explode in his garage
The Associated Press, 24-07-01
A man was killed when some fireworks exploded at his Pennsylvania home.

Victoria’s first Canada Day drone show could be a test for the future of fireworks
Robyn Bell, Environment News, 2024-06-30
The show in the sky will take off on Monday, mixing high-tech and traditional Coast Salish art.

2023

Diwali fireworks advisory issued despite warnings it might be discriminatory
Mia Rabson, The Canadian Press, 23-10-02
At least two Environment Canada meteorologists warned that linking Diwali fireworks to air pollution in an air quality advisory could be perceived as discriminatory, internal emails show, but the advisory was still published. [The real issue is not whether it is discriminatory, but whether it is correct. Using culture as an excuse to justify harmful activities is just as harmful. Also see this article.]

Squamish Nation Fireworks Regulation pdf
Squamish Nation, 23-09-08
prohibited the sale, purchase, possession, and/or discharge of fireworks on Squamish Nation reserve lands of any kind effective November 1, 2022 … Council passed a resolution continuing to support the ban on fireworks sales, use and discharge on August 4, 2023.

Surrey homeowner sues neighbour after Halloween fireworks cause fire damage
Susan Lazaruk, The Province 23-08-28
The homeowner says his neighbour and an unnamed invited guest lit fireworks at a social gathering on Oct. 31, 2021, causing “significant fire, smoke and water damage”

Italian town becomes the first city in the world to switch to silent fireworks.
Animals Everyday 23-08-22
The first municipality in the world to totally transition to utilizing exclusively silent fireworks is Collecchio, an Italian town in the Parma District of Italy.

As much as B.C. loves its fireworks, some residents are pushing Ottawa to retire them
Chad Pawson, CBC News, 23-07-15
Whether fireworks are appropriate is an on-going debate between those who want pets and people sensitive to noise to be protected, others who see fireworks as costly and polluting, and those who want the traditional fun to continue.

A large explosion at a fireworks warehouse in Thailand kills at least 9 people
The Associated Press, CTV, 23-07-29 A large explosion at a fireworks warehouse in southern Thailand on Saturday killed at least nine people … at least 115 people were hurt, and that many were in serious condition … about 500 to 800 people who live nearby may have to be moved to a temporary shelter.

Coun. Hanson wants complete ban on fireworks in District of North Vancouver
Gagandeep Ghuman,North Shore Daily Post, 23-07-26
Every Halloween and new year, we get many complaints from people about fireworks. It’s upsetting to animals and there is an environmental impact from all the smoke and it’s bad for the wild animals. I believe the time has come to focus on ensuring that everyone can enjoy Halloween.

The dangers of fireworks: increased fire risk in drought and decreased air quality
Amber Twardy, ABC57, 23-07-03
Although fireworks can seem like a harmless way to celebrate the Fourth of July, they’re actually more dangerous than most people realize.

July 4th firework mishaps claimed lives and injured dozens
Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY, 23-07-06
These incidents are among nearly a half-dozen reported firework-related fatalities police and fire officials said have taken place across the nation during this year’s Fourth of July festivities.

Is it time for drones to replace fireworks at Vancouver’s Celebration of Light?
Gordon McIntyre, 23-07-04
Compared to the explosive kind, drones are quieter, safer, better for the environment and don’t scare the bejesus out of pets.

Replacing Fireworks With Light Shows for the Holiday
Bonnie Riva Ras, Deputy Editor, Goodnet 23-06-30
Futuristic light shows are a better choice this summer.
[Although light shows are indeed a better choice, just how much better they are should be examined further.]

Hacking the Fireworks Firewall
prad, towardsfreedom 23-06-29
Ending fireworks frustration requires understanding the game.

Fireworks should be banned says advocacy group
Diane Strandberg 23-06-27
BC animal advocacy group says fireworks exploding in the night sky is an outdated and dangerous way of celebrating — and should be banned.

Council of Saanich Presentation Video
Lavinia Rojas Schultz and Ranjana Basu 23-06-12
[Lavinia @ 2:35 and Ranjana @ 12:30 spoke about why a fireworks ban should be implemented.]

Summer fireworks can traumatize pets and cause wildlife to flee
Kendra Coulter, The Conversation, 23-06-01
Animal caretakers, wildlife rehabilitators and fire services see firsthand the damaging — and sometimes fatal — effects whenever and wherever fireworks are deployed.

People got stupid with fireworks all over Toronto on Victoria Day
Jack Landau 23-05-23
Toronto’s main fireworks display was held over Ashbridge’s Bay, and police were out in full force to prevent a repeat of the chaotic events witnessed during 2022’s Victoria Day celebration.

Petition started to reverse cancellation of Canada Day fireworks
Stephanie Babych 23-05-23
The petition, started by Common Sense Calgary, calls for city council to step in and reverse the choice to cancel the July 1st fireworks display. The group labels the decision as “nonsense.”
[The article also states that the ban attempts to address environmental and cultural issues. The pyrotechnic show is also friendlier to wildlife.]

Brampton bans personal fireworks ahead of long weekend celebrations
Global News 23-05-19
The City of Brampton enacted a ban on all fireworks last year. As Victoria Day approaches, Sean O’Shea reports on how locals feel about the ban.

Fireworks within CVRD still a hot topic; some directors want a complete ban
Robert Barron 23-04-26
Acton said the CVRD is way behind many large municipalities and other jurisdictions which have completely banned fireworks.

Crowd-Pleasing Fireworks Are Not So Pleasing to the Planet
Jessica Han, Global Commons 23-04-19
Fireworks are used to please crowds, celebrate big holidays, and end festivals with a bang – literally. But at what environmental cost? Especially when climate change has made its way to the forefront of the planet, it is important to consider the environmental impact of fireworks.

Victoria residents ask council for fireworks ban due to impact on pets
Ella Matte, Victoria News 23-01-16
Several Victorians want the city to enact a fireworks ban due to the impact of noise on pets and people with PTSD
[Meeting Minutes show that the 4 individuals were Lavinia Rojas: Fireworks Ban (D.6); Jen Dobell: Ban Fireworks for Animals, Environment, People with PTSD (D.7); Shon Shum: Banning of Fireworks ( ); Teri Millis: Fireworks (D.9).]

2022

Fireworks are NOT Inclusive – and Outdated in a Modern Society
Liz, The Fireworks Campaign UK 22-11-06
Many people are adversely affected by fireworks and yet society does not include their needs in the lack of regulation we have around fireworks. I remember a lady who got in touch with us, whose husband is a war veteran. He almost died in combat and she finds it so distressing to see him go clammy and shake when fireworks go off.

Delta police investigating fireworks-involved assaults after Halloween gathering
Black Press Media Staff 22-11-02
Police say hundreds of youth gathered on Oct. 31, causing property damage and targeting pedestrians … multiple pedestrians and first responders were assaulted with fireworks …young people were reported setting off fireworks for at least four hours

Fireworks are a Halloween tradition in B.C., but many cities regulate them
The Canadian Press 22-10-27
While some cities permit fireworks on Halloween night, many municipalities across the province have banned their use, including Vancouver, Kelowna, Coquitlam, Kamloops and Surrey.

Are Fireworks Really Important for Diwali Celebrations?
Jack Dutton, Newsweek, 22-10-22
Fireworks are a more modern phenomenon when it comes to Diwali celebrations … “They are not necessary, and the festival does not lose its significance in any way if they are absent.”

How Fireworks Pollute Our Drinking Water
MCWEC 22-06-27
Air pollution is a well known concern with fireworks displays, but often overlooked is the impact lingering debris in air, water and land has on drinking water.

Edmonton firefighters want tighter rules on fireworks
Sean Amato, CTV News Edmonton 22-05-31
Officials with the fire department are concerned about accidental blazes and injuries and are recommending councillors ban amateur displays and only allow shows with professional oversight and paid permits.

Online petition urges city to ban private firework sales, displays in London
Colin Butler, CBC News 22-05-25
An online petition is urging city council to institute a ban on the private sale and display of fireworks inside city limits, citing safety reasons, pollution and people setting them off illegally in the weeks leading up to and after statutory holidays.

Private fireworks should be banned
Robert Barron 22-02-03
I was amazed that no cars had exploded, no houses burned down.

CVRD won’t ban fireworks; at least not yet
Robert Barron 22-04-18
District will invite municipalities and First Nations to participate in discussions.

CVRD favours fireworks ban, but worried about practicality
Robert Barron 22-02-03
Some directors want a total ban.
[Others aren’t sure it can be enforced.]

N.S. horse owner calls for ban of consumer fireworks
Alex Cooke, Global News 22-01-10
A Nova Scotia horse owner is calling for the ban of consumer fireworks after spending another New Year’s Eve trying to keep her animals calm.

2021 and earlier

Managing PTSD during fireworks season
Emily Bashforth 21-11-01
While fireworks season can be an exciting time for many, this time of year can be really difficult for people with PTSD. Fireworks displays can be beautiful to look at, but the loud noises they create can be triggering if someone has trauma from an experience in their past. It’s important we don’t forget about people with PTSD during fireworks season.

Police say fireworks issues in the Valley need to be addressed
Robert Barron 21-11-19
“We see lots of injuries,” RCMP Insp. Chris Bear says.

Halloween fire costs plunge in Vancouver in first year of firework ban
Simon Little, Global News 21-11-03
Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services says the city saw a massive plunge in costs associated with the use of fireworks this Halloween, the first year the city’s ban on the sale and use of consumer fireworks was in effect … Over Halloween weekend in 2020, the service reported a total dollar loss for fireworks-related incidents to $408,000 … This year, that figure dropped to just $5,500.

Vancouver authorities say they were too busy to enforce new fireworks ban on Halloween
St. John Alexander 21-11-01
Vancouver police and firefighters admit Halloween is often the busiest night of the year, and claim they just don’t have the resources to enforce the city’s new fireworks bylaw.
[Fireworks need to be banned. Lack of resources are often a problem, so the approach should incorporate an effort to make fireworks unpopular, much in the way that smoking has been made unpopular since the 1980s.]

It’s Time To Ban Fireworks
Jordan Reichert 21-10-31
Fireworks Diminish the Real Star We Should be Celebrating: Nature.

National government petition on fireworks launched ahead of Halloween
Vincent Plana 21-10-29
A petition on the House of Commons website calling for federal action against fireworks has gained the support of the BC SPCA. It was started by BC resident Lavinia Rojas and authorized by Laurel Collins, a Member of Parliament under the New Democratic Party.

Firework bans don’t work …
Michael Briones 21-07-12
Concerns raised in Regional District of Nanaimo regarding negative impact on animals … The Canadian National Fireworks Association official advocates education as a better solution than banning the sale and use of fireworks. [Note that CNFA is, according to their website “leading national voice to advocate on behalf of the fireworks industry” and works to “promote the industry through … Consumer Fireworks, Display Fireworks, …” blah, blah, blah. Their ‘be a good-neighbor’ schtick sounds nice, but is just warm-fuzzy deception.]

NHL goalie dead from chest trauma in July 4 fireworks blast
The Canadian Press 21-07-05
Autopsy finds Columbus player Matiss Kivlenieks died after firework tilted and fired toward people.

The Hidden Harms Of Fireworks On Wildlife And People
Alannah Hardcastle, Random Acts of Green, 21-05-24
You’ll want to change the way we celebrate special occasions when you learn the harmful effects of fireworks on the environment.

Councillor wants ban on fireworks in North Vancouver district
Staff Report, North Shore Daily Post, 20-10-14
District of North Vancouver councillor Megan Curren is bringing forward a motion to direct staff to ban the sale and use of fireworks, including smoke generating pyrotechnic devices by March 2021.

Fireworks can torment veterans and survivors of gun violence with PTSD
Arash Javanbakht, The Conversation, 20-07-01
For some combat veterans, the Fourth of July is not a time to celebrate the independence of the country they love. Instead, the holiday is a terrifying ordeal.

FIREWORKS
Lake Cowichan Gazette
A collection of articles/videos regarding fireworks usage in the CVRD. Some of the links here have been presented above.

The Trouble With Fireworks
blogger Nichole Sawatzky
[This blog article summarizes many of the issues surrounding fireworks discharges.]

What the Hell is Going on With the Nonstop Fireworks, Every Single Night?
Kevin Kinkead, Sports Writer
Loud bangs and explosions, beginning at 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. and going until midnight or later. It’s been everywhere in Philadelphia, and worse than normal. These explosions are bigger and louder and they’re taking place weeks before the Fourth of July, which is different from years past…

How fireworks can affect your health and the ecosystem
Maggie Macintosh, CBC News 19-07-20
Environmentalists are questioning whether minutes-long sparkly spectacles are worth fireworks’ long-term effects on human health and wildlife.

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Legalities

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 22:01:57 -0800

This section contains various acts and guidelines that regulate fireworks discharge for specific localities.

Cowichan Valley Regional District

The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) on Vancouver Island has specific guidelines for fireworks discharge.

For instance:

a permit is required to discharge fireworks
applicant must be 19 years or older and be the property owner
liability assumed by permit holder

Additionally, there are prohibitions:

no one can sell fireworks
no one can discharge fireworks without a permit
no one can discharge fireworks within 500m of livestock property

There are penalties for violations:

$750 for selling fireworks
$250 for unlawful discharge of fireworks

They also encourage you to ‘respectfully communicate’ with your inconsiderate neighbors.

Full details can be found on the CVRD page Fireworks Permits & Safety.

Metchosin

Their Bylaw #269 is designed in an effort to “To help reduce the risks of fire and fireworks for the safety and protection of persons and property”. Get it here.

Saanich

Fireworks Bylaw

You can set off fireworks on October 31 only, between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m.
You need a fireworks permit to possess or discharge fireworks in Saanich.
We issue permits to those 18 years and older who successfully complete a Saanich Fire Department fireworks safety course within the last three years.
You may not buy or sell fireworks in Saanich.

Full document to be found on the Saanich site.

Victoria, Canada

The CVD has a fireworks bylaw #07-070 with the following sections:

Introduction
- Title
- Definitions
- Severability
Permits
- Application for permit
- Conditions of permit
- Suspension and revocation
Regulations
- Sales, gifts, trading fireworks
- Possession of fireworks
- Use of fireworks
General
- Incident service fee
- Surrender of fireworks
- Offences and penalties
- Repeal

The document (in pdf format) can be found here.

British Columbia Fireworks Act

This act is current to 2023-05-10 and contains the following sections:

Definition
Application of Act
Selling, giving or setting off fireworks
Sale to minor
Permission for public display
Power to make regulations

The Fireworks Act [RSBC 1996] CHAPTER 146 can be found here.

Back to
Fireworks Frustration Homepage

Fireworks Frustration on Towards Freedom

Presenting to Politicians

Understanding the political structure

Presenting to your local council

But what do I say?!?!

Districts you can speak at

Helpful Alliances

Who Should Support Us

Law Enforcement

Environmental Preservation

Animal Protection

Human Safety

Fiscal Responsibility

Who Are Supporting Us

Resources

Fireworks Frustration Graphics

Elists

Sample Letters for Ban

How to ban fireworks in your community

Artworks

Twyla Francois

Bianca Xunise

Problems and Solutions

The Problems

Noise pollution

Light pollution

Debris pollution

Chemical pollution

The Solutions

Defense

The Best Defense is Offense

The Sounds of Silence

FAQ

I want fireworks banned! What can I do to make this happen?

How do I report illegal fireworks discharge?

What are the problems associated with fireworks discharge?

What are some solutions to dealing with fireworks?

What penalties are in place in the CVRD for illegal fireworks activities?

Is a ban on fireworks even practical?

How can you stop fireworks so long as people are allowed to sell them?

But it is only 3 times a year! Shouldn’t we be tolerant?

Are there media articles regarding opposition to fireworks?

What are some alternatives to fireworks displays?

Is there any scientific research available on the harm fireworks cause?

Can we share our own experiences with fireworks?

Where can I talk to sensible like-minded people who don’t want fireworks?

How can I let others know about this site?

Do you have a comprehensive Plan Of Action to follow to ban fireworks?

Stories

Research Papers

Animals

People

Pollution

Media

Websites and Social Media

Silent Fireworks

The Drone Show

News Articles

2024

2023

2022

2021 and earlier

Legalities

Cowichan Valley Regional District

Metchosin

Saanich

Victoria, Canada

British Columbia Fireworks Act