Lit diyas on a tray for Diwali. Stock image: Udayaditya Barua / Unsplash
Diwali is on Sunday, Nov. 8 this year, the main day of a five-day festival that starts Friday, Nov. 6, while Sikhs will also observe Bandi Chhor Divas at the same time.
Many Calgarians will be lighting diyas, gathering with family and heading to temples, gurdwaras and community celebrations. The City of Calgary, the Calgary Fire Department and Calgary police are asking everyone to celebrate safely.
Fire Marshal Glenn Baxter said fireworks can quickly set grass, vehicles and homes on fire, and asked people to celebrate responsibly and keep their neighbours in mind.
Lighting diyas and candles safely
The City's safety tips:
Set diyas and candles on something that won't burn, never on grass or plastic.
Keep candles and sparklers away from anything that could catch fire.
Use LED or battery candles where you can.
Keep a close eye on children.
Don't use anything labelled "for outdoor use only" indoors.
Clean up sparklers, diyas and candles safely when you're done.
Video: City of Calgary / YouTube
Sparklers yes, fireworks no
Personal fireworks aren't allowed in Calgary, including fireworks bought outside the city or ordered online. That covers firecrackers, Roman candles, fountains and aerial shells.
The City says police got 167 fireworks-related calls during Diwali last year.
"We want everyone to enjoy these celebrations safely and respectfully," Calgary Police Service Staff Sgt. Geoff Gawlinski said in the City's news release. "Last year, officers responded to numerous fireworks-related complaints, including reports that were initially believed to be gunshots. Unauthorized fireworks can create safety concerns and place significant demands on emergency services."
Small novelty items such as birthday cake sparklers and confetti poppers are allowed. Under federal rules, you have to be 16 or older to buy and use them.
Instead of fireworks, the City suggests decorating with festive lights, gathering with family and friends, or going to a community celebration.
The City also raised its fireworks fines on Sept. 22. Setting off fireworks without a permit or having them in a public place can bring a $1,000 fine, and selling them without permission can bring a $3,000 fine. It's now also an offence to carry or set up fireworks in a public place before they're lit.
Reporting illegal fireworks
Report illegal fireworks to 311 under "Disturbance and Public Behaviour Concerns" and include the location. Call 911 for a fire or other emergency. More information is at calgary.ca/fireworks.
