FAQs
- Fireworks start an average of 19,000 fires in the US each year
- 1,300 structure fires
- 300 vehicle fires
- nearly 17,000 other fires.
- With drought and the recent state of wildfires in BC, we cannot take the risk that fireworks pose
- When fireworks are exploded, they can contain perchlorates* that deposit back down to the surface, contaminating soil and water.
- Domestic pets and wildlife experience anxiety and stress from the sonic boom of fireworks. Some animals flee their homes; others may be hit by vehicles. Some birds may abandon their nests.
- Fireworks can damage hearing in some people (the World Health Organization lists 120 decibels as the pain threshold for sound; fireworks are usually louder than that).
- Fireworks are the riskiest consumer product with an average of 3 deaths per year in the US and 13,000 injuries/burns.
- Metallic compounds (copper and lithium) in fireworks may be carcinogenic or toxic to humans and animals.
- Fireworks' colours and smoke produces toxic exhaust.
- Smoke from fireworks generates particulate matter, which can affect air quality and make breathing more difficult for people with asthma or other respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
- *Percholates disrupt thyroid function.
Why does the RDKB want to regulate fireworks?
Fire Risk
Environment
Noise
Health and Safety
On which days can fireworks be discharged with a permit?
January 1st, July 1st, July 4th, October 31st, and December 31st.
What if I'm having a special occasion and I want to set off fireworks?
You need to apply for a permit which has to be reviewed and approved the RDKB Board of Directors.
How far in advance of setting off the fireworks do I have to apply for a permit?
Applications for permits must be submitted to the Christina Lake Fire Department no later than seven (7) days prior to the intended discharge of fireworks.
Are there any measures in place to protect livestock from fireworks?
No person shall discharge fireworks within 500 metres of a livestock property.
How do I report a violation of the fireworks bylaw?
Contact the RDKB Bylaw Enforcement department at https://rdkb.com/Public-Safety/-Bylaw-Enforcement.
Please be advised that the RDKB will investigate potential violations of this bylaw upon receiving at least two written complaints.
What happens if my fireworks cause a fire and the fire department has to respond?
In the event that the Fire Department responds to a fireworks-caused incident that requires fire response, the Regional District will recover associated costs from the property owner based on the provincial Interagency Operational Procedures and Reimbursement Rates Agreement.