Mississauga Gears Up for Diwali: Safety Reminders and City Guidelines

Mississauga – Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is fast approaching, with families across Mississauga making preparations for their celebrations. Symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, the holiday is marked by vibrant displays of lights, candles, lanterns, food, and fireworks.

As the festive spirit builds, the City of Mississauga is urging residents to prioritize safety and be mindful of their neighbours to ensure that the celebrations are both safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Join us in celebrating Diwali at the Noel Ryan Auditorium in Hazel McCallion Central Library!

Experience the vibrant colours and sounds of the Festival of Lights, including a Bharatanatyam dance by AKnatyam.

More info: https://t.co/sngeAhzqq7 pic.twitter.com/Zs4nbbMFFo

— City of Mississauga (@citymississauga) October 24, 2024

Fireworks Regulations

In line with the City’s Fireworks By-law, residents are permitted to set off fireworks on private property for Diwali only on Friday, November 1, from dusk until 11 p.m. For those wishing to use fireworks on any public street, park, or outside of the designated day, a special permit from the City is required.

The City has provided important safety tips for residents:

• Read and understand the instructions, cautions, and warnings on all fireworks.
• Ensure spectators and pedestrians maintain a safe distance from the fireworks display.
• Children must always be supervised during fireworks use.
• Dispose of fireworks by soaking them overnight in water, wrapping them in a plastic bag, and throwing them in the garbage.

To address concerns around illegal fireworks, the City has increased the number of Enforcement officers on duty during Diwali. These officers will patrol to respond to complaints more swiftly and work alongside Peel Regional Police to manage illegal fireworks at locations with a history of misuse.

Residents can report illegal fireworks use by visiting mississauga.ca/fireworks or calling 311. The City reminds everyone not to call 911 unless there is an injury or imminent fire risk.

Fire Safety: Lights and Decorations

The City also emphasizes fire safety when setting up Diwali decorations. Candles and diyas should be securely placed in heat-resistant holders, away from flammable items like curtains, furniture, and decorations. Always supervise any open flames and keep them out of reach of children and pets. Using closets for candles or diyas is strongly discouraged, as they do not provide adequate ventilation for open flames.

Cooking and Kitchen Safety

Since Diwali is often celebrated with elaborate meals shared among family and friends, kitchen safety is also a top priority. The City advises the following precautions:

• Stay focused while cooking. If you must leave the kitchen, turn off all hot appliances.
• Keep flammable items like towels and clothes away from the stovetop.
• Do not cook or barbecue in enclosed spaces like garages.
• Avoid bringing portable gas-fueled cooking appliances indoors.
• Be cautious when frying or using oil. Hot oil can ignite quickly, so the use of a thermostat-controlled deep fryer is recommended.

As Diwali festivities approach, Mississauga residents are encouraged to incorporate these safety measures into their plans, ensuring celebrations remain festive and incident-free.

For more fire safety tips and guidelines on fireworks use, visit the City’s fire prevention web page or mississauga.ca/fireworks.