There will be no fireworks at Connaught Hill Park this Canada Day, due to the risk of fire.
Campfires and fireworks have been prohibited through the Prince George Fire Centre area since May 19, due to the high fire hazard. The City of Prince George announced on June 23 that fireworks planned as part of Canada Day in the Park celebrations have been cancelled.
“We know people are keen for fireworks, particularly to celebrate Canada Day, but it simply is not worth the risk,” Prince George Fire Chief Cliff Warner said. “We’ve already seen people in northeast B.C. evacuated earlier this month due to wildfires, so we need to make sure we’re playing our part and being sensible during the summer months.”
The city’s Fire Protection and Emergency Response Bylaw gives the fire chief the authority to institute fireworks bans in the interest of public safety.
On Wednesday, the city issued a reminder to all residents that the Category 1 fire ban also applies to personal fireworks discharged on private property. People violating the ban could be ticketed for $1,150, and potentially face penalties as high as $100,000 if convicted in court.
Warner urged Prince George residents to celebrate Canada Day responsibly and respect public safetyl
“We hope everyone enjoys celebrating Canada Day this weekend, but we want to make sure no one is letting off fireworks on private property," he said.
Other Canada Day in the Park celebrations will continue as planned.
