Toronto police out with Canada Day safety plans, warning against personal fireworks

Canada Day means fireworks this weekend and Toronto police are out with a safety plan to avoid the bad behaviours seen last year at one of the city’s largest displays.

Officers held a news conference at Woodbine Beach to go over the force’s plans to ensure a safe long weekend, including during the fireworks display at Ashbridge’s Bay Park.

“A variety of police resources will be in the area to ensure everyone can enjoy the event safely, including the Mounted Unit and officers patrolling on foot, ATVs and bikes,” reads a release from Toronto Police Service. “Fire Services, EMS personnel and City by-law officers will also be on-scene.”

The Ashbridge’s Bay firework display will begin at 10 p.m. on Saturday. Police are reminding attendees that personal fireworks are not allowed at city parks and beaches.

“Just don’t bring them down, the city has spent a lot of money on a fantastic fireworks display,” says Insp. Michael Hayles. “There’s just no reason to bring them down.”

Laura Boyko, a division chief with Toronto Fire Services, reminded people to be cautious when it comes to fireworks and warned against improper usage.

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“They unfortunately can cause some pretty devastating burns, injuries. They can create brush fires, grass fires, so there is some significant damage if not used property,” she told CityNews.

“Shooting an explosive at somebody can create significant issues. We have, like I said, devastating burns. They can have a lot of damage with hands, fingers, eye injuries even.”

When asked about how current weather conditions could affect fireworks, Boyko said there aren’t immediate concerns in Toronto but added wind patterns should be factored in.

Police are also reminding people that a pilot project permitting alcohol in some parks has not yet been approved.

“That has not passed,” says Hayles. “Personal alcohol is not permitted at the beach.”

The fireworks display will be visible from Coxwell Avenue to Victoria Park Avenue. There will be road closures in the area and drivers are being warned to expect delays.

The City of Toronto is out with the following reminders for those looking to attend the display:

• Do not bring personal fireworks to the beach. The City will be providing a spectacular fireworks display that everyone can enjoy safely.
• Drinking alcohol on the beach is prohibited.
• Fires are not permitted in parks, beaches or public spaces, except for City-designed fire pits (which require a permit).
• If possible, take transit to and from the beach to avoid traffic and other parking issues.
• If you drive to the beach, be mindful of residents in the area. Do not block driveways or fire hydrants.
• Keep music at a reasonable level. Amplified sound such as DJ equipment and large wireless speakers are not permitted.
• Police and by-law officers will be patrolling the beach day and night.
• More information about fireworks rules, safety tips and proper disposal is available at Toronto.ca/fireworks.

Police have been stepping up enforcement during holiday fireworks displays at Ashbridge’s Bay after violence rocked the 2022 Victoria Day long weekend.

Two men were shot, another stabbed, and seven police officers injured during several violent incidents in the area. Police made 24 arrests over two days.

With files from Nick Westoll