NEWS RELEASE
For immediate release
June 30, 2023
Staying Safe this Canada Day
CHATHAM-KENT (June 30, 2023) – Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue is wishing everyone a safe and happy Canada Day weekend asking CK residents to keep these safety tips in mind.
Consumer fireworks can be set off 3 days before, on and 3 days after July 1st until 11pm and must be set off on private property, not municipal property (streets, parks, etc.).
“We always recommend leaving the fireworks to the experts and attending a professional display,” explains Public Information Officer Whitney Burk. “And this weekend there are many local professional fireworks displays across CK happening.”
Parents are also advised to keep sparklers away from children. Hot sparklers can burn and cause serious injury. Celebrate with glow sticks and other glow in the dark items.
CKFR recently launch CK Water Safe, a drowning prevention program aimed to eliminating avoidable water-related injuries and fatalities.
“For many families, the long weekend will include activities such as boating and swimming,” says Burk. “The absence of adult supervision is a factor in most child drownings. Whether it's a pool or at the beach, always watch children actively around water – even if they can swim.”
When heading out on the water make sure everyone has a lifejacket. Check the weather, monitor the forecast.
CKFR also recommends checking the smoke and co alarms in your summer homes. Check the date of the alarms, they need to be replaced every 10 years.
“Cottages are required to have working smoke alarms on every level, while it is not law to have alarms in your trailer or RV,” explains Burk. “We always advise having them – especially if you’re sleeping there.”
For more information, visit Fire & Rescue | Seasonal Fire Safety (chatham-kent.ca). Review the CK Fireworks By-law here Fireworks By-law 56-2016 (chatham-kent.ca).
-30-
For additional information please contact:
Whitney Burk
Public Information Officer
Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue
whitneyb@chatham-kent.ca
519-436-3270
