Misuse of fireworks can lead to criminal charges

SURREY RCMP are sharing safety tips with the community to ensure everyone has a safe fun-filled Halloween.

Halloween night is traditionally a busy night for trick-or-treaters, parents, and first responders. Surrey RCMP will have additional resources on shift over the Halloween weekend to help ensure public safety.

Surrey RCMP regularly receives an overwhelming number of noise complaints resulting from the use of fireworks. Fireworks are not permitted in the City of Surrey without a City of Surrey Fire Department permit and a Federal Fireworks Operator Certificate. Review Surrey’s fireworks regulations here.

Those caught selling or setting off illegal fireworks can face fines. Misuse of fireworks can also cause personal injury or lead to criminal charges.

If you have safety concerns regarding the misuse of fireworks in your neighborhood, call City of Surrey Bylaws at 604-591-4370 during business hours and Surrey RCMP non-emergency at 604-599-0502 after hours. The use of 911 should be reserved for emergencies only. Police will prioritize response to calls with an immediate risk to public safety.

“Let the creepy costumes and spooky decorations be the only things that scare you this Halloween,” says Media Relations Officer Constable Sarbjit Kaur Sangha. “Take appropriate pre-cautions to ensure that you have a fun and safe Halloween experience.”

Surrey RCMP encourage you to review the following safety tips and share them with family members:

• Trick or treat in groups or with an adult;

• Plan a route that includes well-lit streets, sidewalks and crosswalks;

• Always use a marked crosswalk and never jaywalk;

• Have a flashlight with you;

• Ensure children have emergency contact information on them;

• Save the treats for home, after they have been inspected by an adult;

• Choose a costume that is light, bright, and incorporates glow sticks or reflectors;

• Avoid face masks that could obstruct your vision — makeup or face paint is a safer choice;

• Leave any fake weaponry at home;

• The Surrey Animal Resource Centre wants to remind residents pets are safer inside with the family, where they can be secure from the frightening sights and sounds of fireworks or people in costumes. While it can be a fun exciting time for people, we need to remember our four-legged family members don’t perceive things the same way we do and extra care should be taken with them.