Social media lights up with Halloween fireworks complaints
Posted November 1, 2023 7:24 am.
Last Updated November 1, 2023 11:11 pm.
Complaints about fireworks in many Metro Vancouver neighbourhoods Tuesday night seem almost as loud as the explosions themselves.
Judging from all the angry posts on social media, it seems people were lighting off more pyrotechnics than usual on Halloween night.
Many accounts on X have described a hectic evening of explosions from sunset until well after midnight, despite bans and restrictions on the sale and discharge of Halloween fireworks in some municipalities.
“Vancouver’s fireworks ban is going well,” one post reads, noting the sarcasm in that statement. “Clearly, enforcement is effective.”
Kinda wish it was pouring rain so the fireworks would stop . So much for not allowed in Surrey and Delta.
— Susan (@susanw71) November 1, 2023
There are also the usual complaints from pet owners, describing terrified dogs and cats, cowering because of all the explosions and loud noises.
“@CityofVancouver what do we have to do to get rid of fireworks in vancouver (sic)? Bylaws and police don’t do anything to prevent them as my dog is literally vibrating in the corner. Thanks for nothing,” another person wrote.
But, on the flip side, there are many responses pointing out fireworks are nothing new on Halloween in Metro Vancouver, and people should be used to them.
“Seriously, complain about other things, not fireworks,” one person wrote on X.
“I can’t tell who’s louder, the fireworks or the people that complain incessantly each year… At least the fireworks are one night, the complaining never stops,” account @morbital posted.
Vancouver Fire Rescue Services says, while no fines were issued, a number of illegal fireworks were seized and inspectors responded to thirty different calls related to fireworks.
“It’s just not needed to do this. Let’s leave it to the professionals who know how to safely discharge fireworks, at big events and they’re simply not safe in these numbers and to the generic public having it close proximity to peoples’ houses,” he said.
A majority of Metro Vancouver municipalities restrict the use of Halloween fireworks, by requiring permits and payment of fees, and only allowing them to be set off during certain dates and hours.
The cities of Vancouver and Pitt Meadows have banned fireworks altogether, except at special, sanctioned community events.
With files from Kate Walker
