Following an incident over the May long weekend, the Town of Rocky Mountain House is reminding residents that a fireworks permit is required before discharging any type of fireworks.

On May 22, Clearwater Reginal Fire Rescue Services and Town of Rocky Mountain House Protective Services responded to an outdoor fire along 60 Street which was the result of fireworks discharged unsafely. A small grass fire was put out and nobody involved in the incident was injured.

“The person responsible for the fireworks quickly realized the consumer explosives they had purchased had more firepower than expected,” said Chief Petty Officer Ashton Hunt. “Fortunately, the fires were extinguished, however, the incident could have been much worse given the dry conditions over the May long weekend.” added Hunt.

The Town of Rocky Mountain House established a fireworks bylaw in 2020 for the safety and well-being of the community. It outlines the necessary conditions for discharging fireworks within Town limits, including the need for a fireworks permit.

Town officials say, a consumer fireworks permit requires a water source and a fire extinguisher be available on site. Permits are deemed cancelled in the event of a fire ban or whenever wins speeds are greater than 12 km/h.

Officials note, fines for discharging fireworks without a permit start at $250, other firework bylaw violations carry fines of up to $5,000.

Hunt advised, “Even with a fireworks permit, consumers should take care to read all fireworks packaging closely and always have a fire extinguisher handy just in case.”

Town officials explain, consumer fireworks are designed for recreational use and are classified as low-hazard under the Explosive Act. However, low-risk does not mean no-risk, said Hunt.