Consumer fireworks are an increasing safety concern for the St. John’s Regional Fire Department (SJRFD). To help reduce risk and improve awareness, the SJRFD has established a consumer fireworks safety program. This program is focused on ensuring both vendors and purchasers understand and follow proper safety requirements.

The City of St. John’s has regulations governing the use of consumer fireworks. Fireworks are only permitted for use on Canada Day and New Year’s Eve, unless a Special Events Permit has been issued.

Vendors

All individuals selling fireworks must complete a certification exam. The certification exam has 25 multiple choice questions and a mark of 80 per cent is required to pass. If a passing grade is not obtained, individuals have the option to rewrite the exam the next business day. There is no limit to how many times an exam can be written but each exam will consist of different questions. Vendors will receive a certification card which must be kept on site containing their name and certification number.

The Consumer Fireworks Manual for Vendors is available for your information.

There are no expiry dates on the certification. The vendor's permit expires annually on November 30 unless cancelled or suspended sooner. An annual inspection will automatically be conducted before the expiration of each permit. Inspectors will request to see certification cards as part of the annual inspection.

Arrange an exam by contacting Fire Prevention staff, see contact information below.

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks can be exciting to watch, but they can also be extremely dangerous if not used properly. Consumer fireworks are powerful pyrotechnic devices, which is why it’s important to follow all safety instructions and comply with Canada’s laws governing their use. Before lighting fireworks, be sure you understand the rules, choose an appropriate location, and read all instructions carefully.

The most common fireworks-related injuries include severe burns, loss of fingers or limbs, and vision impairment. The St. John’s Regional Fire Department (SJRFD) reminds residents to use caution and handle fireworks responsibly during celebrations. Following the safety guidelines below will help ensure your event is safe and enjoyable for everyone.

You can also check out our Fireworks Safety Fact Sheet.

Fireworks Safety Tips

• Read and follow all instructions on the fireworks packaging. Plan the order of firing before you begin.

• Never light a firework while holding it, and never pick up or hold a lit firework unless the manufacturer specifically indicates it is safe to do so.

• Store fireworks in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, out of reach of children, until you are ready to use them.

• Do not use fireworks in windy conditions.

• Choose a wide, open area away from buildings, trees, vehicles, and other obstacles. Follow the minimum distance requirements listed on the fireworks label.

• Light fireworks carefully by igniting the fuse at its tip.

• Use a stable firing base, such as a pail filled with earth or sand.

• If a firework does not ignite, wait at least 30 minutes before approaching it. Never attempt to relight or repair a malfunctioning firework. Return defective fireworks to the place of purchase.

• Fireworks without a base should be buried halfway in a container filled with earth or sand (such as a pail or box), unless otherwise directed on the label, and set at a 10-degree angle pointing away from people.

• An adult must supervise anyone under 18 years of age who is using fireworks or is nearby.

• You may store up to 10 kilograms of consumer fireworks in a dwelling. Fireworks must be kept away from flammable materials, sources of ignition, and protected from theft. Access should be limited to authorized individuals only.

• Keep water nearby at all times. After use, soak spent fireworks and debris in water before disposing of them in household garbage.

• Safety glasses are strongly recommended.

• Always check municipal by-laws to confirm when consumer fireworks are permitted.