News Flash

COQUITLAM, BC, Oct. 20, 2021 – With Halloween quickly approaching, Coquitlam is reminding residents about guidelines for fireworks and safety tips to help trick-or-treaters of all ages as well as the community-at-large to have a safe and fun night.

Fireworks

It is illegal to buy or sell fireworks in Coquitlam and firework use requires a permit. Please read our Fireworks Permit Guidelines before you complete a Permit Application – noting the following requirements: 

• a person responsible for the fireworks, who is at least 19 years old; 
• plans to keep spectators at a safe distance from the location where the fireworks are being set off; 
• protection of public and private property; and 
• proper fire extinguishing equipment available. 

Both the Permit Guidelines and Fireworks (Pyrotechnics) Permit Application are available at www.coquitlam.ca/fireworks. The application must be submitted at least 72 hours prior to your planned fireworks event. Permit fees range from $50 - $100 depending on the nature and degree of hazard of the fireworks. The illegal discharge of fireworks can result in fines ranging between $250 to $1,000 and the seizure of remaining fireworks.

Coquitlam Bylaw Enforcement, RCMP and Fire Rescue will be increasing patrols throughout the city and may take enforcement action to ensure public safety.

Did You Know?

• The risk of fireworks injury is highest for children ages 5–14. 
• More than 80 per cent of emergency room fireworks injuries involve fireworks that consumers are permitted to use.
• The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns.

Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters

• Choose costumes that are bright or reflective and that don’t drag.
• Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks to increase visibility.
• Ensure kids can see clearly through masks or choose makeup instead.
• Use battery-operated candles for jack-o-lanterns and other decorations.
• Keep matches, lighters, candles and fireworks out of children’s reach.

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.

Staying Healthy 

• Keep it small – socialize with your social or family bubble. 
• Don’t cover a non-medical mask with a costume mask.
• Sanitize your hands frequently, whether giving or receiving treats.
• Only accept and hand out sealed, pre-packaged treats.
• Consider using tongs, a baking sheet or a candy slide to give out treats.

Safety Tips for Pets

• Keep pets inside – fireworks and costumed strangers can be alarming for pets, potentially causing them to run off, jump out open windows or dart into traffic. 
• Make sure your dog or cat wears identification and has permanent ID such as a tattoo or microchip in case they do run off. 
• Keep human treats out of your pet’s reach – candy is unhealthy for pets, particularly chocolate, which can be toxic.
• Don’t take your pet with you trick-or-treating as the strange sights, sounds and activity can cause a normally friendly dog to bite if it feels scared or threatened.
• Be mindful that dressing your pet in a costume may make them uncomfortable or inhibit their ability to communicate. This may cause dogs to display fearful or aggressive behaviour or be subjected to aggressive behaviour from other dogs.

Media contacts:
Bob Hieltjes
Assistant Chief Fire Prevention
firerescue@coquitlam.ca
604-927-6400

Aaron Hilgerdenaar
Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Services Manager
City of Coquitlam
bylawenforcement@coquitlam.ca
604-927-7387