Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Public Service Announcement: Keep Markham safe by following fireworks rules

MARKHAM, ON – July 27, 2021 – As the August long weekend approaches, the City and Markham Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) remind residents to keep themselves and Markham safe by following the fireworks rules, which includes having already applied for a Family Fireworks Permit.

Applications for Family Fireworks Permits must be made online at least seven days before the planned event date. Violators may be fined up to $5,000 under the Provincial Offences Act.

“Fireworks are very attractive during summer holidays and we all enjoy them – when they are handled safely and responsibly,” said Markham Fire & Emergency Services Fire Chief Adam Grant. “Over the Canada Day long weekend, irresponsible use of family fireworks at City parks scorched several trees and the improper disposal of the fireworks also resulted in some waste bins being burned down. By obtaining a permit for Family Fireworks, we can ensure that all fireworks are both used safely and disposed of properly.”

Family fireworks may only be set off on private property, and with permission from the property owner. Fireworks may not be set off on City property, which includes parks, fields and roads.

Visit Family Fireworks Permit for more information on how to safely use and dispose of fireworks, and visit Fire Services & Emergency Preparedness for additional fire safety tips.

Scorched trees and burned waste bins discovered in Markham’s parks that were caused by the improper use and disposal of family fireworks.

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
Bryan Frois, Chief of Staff at bfrois@markham.ca or 416.567.1177.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:
Jennifer Yap, Coordinator, Communications and Media Relations at jyap@markham.ca or 437.229.2450.

For COVID-19 announcements from the City of Markham:
Visit markham.ca/covid19 or listen to 105.9 The Region – Markham’s information and emergency radio station.

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with more than 351,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 headquartered companies and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy.

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