Even though the provincial stay-at-home order is still in place, you can still celebrate the long weekend with fireworks and a campfire.
Chatham-Kent residents can safely set off fireworks three days before Victoria Day until three days after, from Friday, May 21, until Thursday, May 27.
"We have to follow the guidelines set out by the provincial and federal government in terms of lockdown, but if you safely choose to discharge fireworks at home, you can do so," said Whitney Burk, Public Educator for Chatham-Kent Fire. "We recommend that only adults discharge fireworks. Make sure that you read the directions on the packaging very carefully. Always keep a hose or a water pail close by, and make that if you are going to discharge them that you are away from any combustible materials, like buildings, trees."
There is also a curfew for fireworks -- they should not be set off after 11 p.m.
When it comes to campfires, you may need to get a permit.
"That's your fire pits, your fire rings, any fire that is larger than 60 centimetres or 24 inches in diameter would be considered a recreational fire," said Burk. "The cost is $21, but that does take you for a full year."
However, a permit is not required for small fires in an approved burning device.
"You still have to make sure that they are located in an area that won't pose a risk for fire spread," added Burk. "That's anything like a propane table, or a small fire in a metal or pottery, masonry firebox."
https://twitter.com/ckfiredept/status/1395372773770420225
No matter what kind of campfire you are having, Burk reminds residents to be safe, and never leave a fire unattended, watch your children, and when you're done, make sure it's completely out.
