News Flash

COQUITLAM, B.C., October 23, 2024 – With fall celebrations fast approaching, Coquitlam is reminding residents of key safety tips to ensure a fun and safe experience for trick-or-treaters, families, and the wider community.

Fireworks Permit Process

As we near celebrations like Halloween and Diwali, Coquitlam Fire Rescue reminds residents and businesses that it is illegal to buy or sell fireworks within city limits. 

Firework use in Coquitlam does require a permit, and there are Fireworks Permit Guidelines that must be followed including the following: 

• a responsible adult (19 years or older) must be in charge of setting off the fireworks.
• keeping spectators at a safe distance.
• protecting both public and private property.
• having proper fire extinguishing equipment on hand.

You can find both the Fireworks Permit Guidelines and Fireworks (Pyrotechnics) Permit Application at coquitlam.ca/fireworks.

The Permit Application must be submitted at least 72 hours prior to your event, with permit fees ranging from $50 to $100 based on the hazard level of the fireworks. Illegal fireworks discharge may result in fines between $250 and $1,000 and the seizure of any remaining fireworks. To ensure safety, Coquitlam Bylaw Enforcement Officers, RCMP, and Fire Rescue will be increasing patrols throughout the city on Halloween.

Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters

• Opt for costumes that are bright or reflective and avoid those that drag on the ground.
• Equip children with flashlights or glow sticks to help them stay visible.
• Make sure masks allow for clear vision or consider makeup as a safer alternative.
• Use battery-operated candles for jack-o-lanterns and other decorations to reduce fire risks.
• Keep matches, lighters, candles, and fireworks out of reach of children.

Safety Tips for Drivers

• Expect the unexpected – there will be more foot traffic on Halloween night and most of it will be excited young children, so give yourself extra time to navigate residential streets and stay alert.
• Slow down in residential areas, as reduced speed can help prevent accidents.
• Avoid distractions – keep your focus on the road and your phone out of reach.
• Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters at intersections, particularly when turning or near transit stops.

Protect Our Environment – Recycle Your Pumpkin

• To help keep wildlife safe, only display pumpkins outdoors on Halloween and bring them in overnight. Bears are actively foraging in preparation for winter denning, and pumpkins left outside can attract them to your neighbourhood.
• When Halloween is over, remember to compost your pumpkins by placing them in your Green Cart.

Coquitlam Animal Shelter Offers Safety Tips for Pets

• Keep pets indoors, as the noise and excitement from trick-or-treaters can scare them, causing them to run off, jump through open windows, or dart into traffic.
• Leave your pets at home when trick-or-treating. The unfamiliar sights and sounds can be overwhelming and may cause even the most friendly pets to react aggressively if they feel scared.
• Ensure your pets have identification and permanent ID, such as a tattoo or microchip, in case they do run away.
• Keep candy out of reach – chocolate is particularly dangerous for pets, as it can be toxic.
• If you dress your pet in a costume, make sure it’s comfortable and doesn’t restrict movement or communication. This will help avoid stress, fear, or potential aggressive interactions with other animals.

Media contacts:

Bryan Eberle
Assistant Fire Prevention Chief 
FireRescue@coquitlam.ca
604-927-6400

Sarah Bird
Manager Bylaw Enforcement Operations
BylawEnforcement@coquitlam.ca
604-927-3580

We acknowledge with gratitude and respect that the name Coquitlam was derived from the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ (HUN-kuh-MEE-num) word kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (kwee-KWET-lum) meaning “Red Fish Up the River”. The City is honoured to be located on the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm traditional and ancestral lands, including those parts that were historically shared with the q̓ic̓əy̓ (kat-zee), and other Coast Salish Peoples.