West Vancouver Police and West Vancouver Fire and Rescue encourage all members of the community to be fully informed about safe and lawful use of fireworks.
Fireworks sales are permitted in British Columbia from October 25th through October 31st. The District of West Vancouver has specific bylaws for firework use within West Vancouver.
Fireworks can be purchased, possessed or used only legally in West Vancouver.
Fireworks can be discharged legally in West Vancouver only by persons over the age of 18 with a valid District of West Vancouver permit which can be purchased at Fire Station No.1, 760 16th Street.
Fireworks can be used from 5 pm to 10 pm on October 31st on private property.
It is illegal to discharge, propel, point or throw any fireworks at any person, animal, vehicle, building, structure, or vegetation. Please be mindful that fireworks are explosives that can cause serious injuries and property damage.
Fines for violations of the West Vancouver Fireworks Bylaw start at $500.
Consider taking a few precautionary steps when preparing your little ones for the big night, with these safety tips:
Be Seen: Wear light or bright-coloured costumes to make it easier for drivers to see you. Try reflective tape if your costumes are dark.
Check monster masks: Consider using makeup instead of a mask to ensure that their vision and breathing is not restricted.
Plan your route ahead: If your children are trick-or-treating alone this Halloween, help them map out a route to ensure you know where they are.
Stay bright: Bring flashlights and/or glow sticks. Not only do they make you more visible to motorists, they help you see in the dark.
Travel in groups: Remember that there is safety in numbers.
Be safe: Never enter a house. Accept treats only at the front door.
Check the candy: Remind children not to eat any of the candy they collected until an adult has checked it to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Driver safety tips
Don’t get spooked: Children may be difficult to see while trick-or-treating. Drive slowly and with extra caution, particularly in residential areas.
Secure your car: Park your car in your garage or underground parkade. If you park on the street, park in a well-lit area, remove any valuables and ensure your car is locked.
Plan for a safe, not scary ride home: If your Halloween festivities include alcohol, plan a safe ride home before you head out.
According to ICBC statistics, on average, 240 people are injured in 620 crashes on Halloween in the Lower Mainland.
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