150 calls for firework use prompts officials and Calgary police warn of their use

By CityNews Staff

Calgary police say they received over 150 calls related to personal fireworks use and are reminding people that using the pyrotechnics within the city is prohibited.

They say the calls came in from residents who were “concerned about safety and noise.” Peace officers have issued zero tickets thus far, but are actively processing statements from cases.

The City of Calgary and police say many of the reported fireworks were related to Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas celebrations. The two holidays’ started on Oct. 31 this year.

“The safety of our communities is paramount, as is the safety of those operating and travelling on aircraft in the area. While we will lead with education, enforcement will occur for those blatantly putting others at risk,” said Calgary police inspector Garth Kowalyk.

Police say those they spoke with said they were unaware of the bylaws on the sale and use of fireworks in Calgary.

“Fireworks disturb not only residents but also pets, leading to stressors throughout the entire time that the fireworks are set off,” Wlostowski said.

“Our Community Service Peace Officers are working closely with Business Safety Peace Officers to coordinate our response and share information when it comes to businesses selling fireworks, which is also prohibited within the city.”

The city and police remind Calgarians that using fireworks without a permit violates local bylaws and the National Fire Code (Alberta Edition).

The fines for possessing fireworks without a permit are as follows:

  • Possession of fireworks without a permit: Minimum fine of $500.
  • Use of fireworks without a permit: Minimum fine of $250.
  • Sale of fireworks without a permit: Minimum fine of $250.

Officials say with fireworks accounting for over 19,000 fires and sending more than 9,000 people to emergency rooms each year, it’s “crucial that all Calgarians respect these regulations and leave fireworks to the professionals.”

“We want everyone in Calgary to be safe, and this means restricting the use of fireworks in our city. Fireworks require a safe, non-combustible area and responsible handling to mitigate potential fallout,” said Pete Steenaerts, Deputy Chief of Risk Management with the Calgary Fire Department.

The city asks anyone who observes fireworks going off to report their concerns to 311. More information about obtaining a fireworks permit can be found on the City of Calgary website.

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