Fireworks safety reminders for Halloween and Diwali

October 29, 2024

Image via iStock

With both Halloween and Diwali falling on Oct. 31 this year, Surrey Schools and the Surrey RCMP are sharing some fireworks safety reminders with the community to ensure Halloween and Diwali celebrations remain safe and fun for everyone.

The Surrey RCMP has issued press releases in English, French and Punjabi regarding fireworks safety for Halloween and Diwali. Fireworks and firecrackers are dangerous and can cause significant injury.

Setting off fireworks on public property – including school grounds – is also prohibited.

As per City of Surrey bylaws, fireworks and firecrackers are not permitted to be sold, purchased or displayed in Surrey, or to be used in Surrey without a permit granted by the Surrey Fire Service Fire Prevention Branch. Those caught selling or setting off fireworks are subject to fines and seizure of the fireworks. At the Oct. 7 council meeting, Surrey City Council approved significant increases to fines related to the sale and use of fireworks (see also the press release in Punjabi), increasing the minimum penalty to $400 and the maximum penalty to $50,000.

Surrey RCMP and the City of Surrey Bylaws Enforcement Team will be working together to ensure public safety throughout the night.

If you have concerns regarding the misuse of fireworks in your neighbourhood, contact Surrey Bylaws at 604-591-4370, which will be operating until 1 a.m. Please do not call 911 for fireworks-related concerns as 911 is reserved for emergencies only.

After midnight, please call the Surrey RCMP non-emergency line at 604-599-0502 to report any complaints about fireworks. Surrey RCMP are unable to receive reports of criminal activity via social media such as Facebook and Twitter.

The district also reminds students, parents and staff to take measures to stay safe on Halloween – there are many safety tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while trick-or-treating or celebrating Halloween at home and at school.

Have a happy and safe Diwali and Halloween!