Fireworks are often considered a traditional and fun part of summer celebrations, but they are also very dangerous, says the provincial Fire Marshal.

“Every year at this time we remind Islanders that possessing and discharging fireworks without authority is not legal in Prince Edward Island,” said Fire Marshal David Blacquiere. “Fireworks can only be displayed by a fireworks operator who is licensed through Natural Resources Canada, and only if a permit has been obtained from the Fire Marshal's Office.”

The display, sale, and possession of fireworks is regulated in accordance with the Fire Prevention Act Regulations. Permit applications should be submitted to the Fire Marshal’s Office about two weeks in advance and must be authorized by the Chief of the local fire department. Anyone interested in obtaining the training in order to purchase and set off fireworks must contact Natural Resources Canada.

The Fire Marshal’s Office is a section of the Office of Public Safety, a division of the Department of Justice and Public Safety. For more information call 368-4869 or go to www.peipublicsafety.ca, click on permits in the resources box at the bottom of the page.