Winnipeggers plan explosive end to 2020

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This article was published 30/12/2020 (1768 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Fireworks sales have exploded as Manitobans prepare to ring in the new year at their homes under COVID-19 restrictions, says one retailer.

Sales at Archangel Fireworks are up 25 to 30 per cent, said Candice Mitchell, director of sales and events.

“We’re hoping that people understand that it’s not a standard year. It’s not the way we generally do business, but we’re doing our best to still be able to accommodate all the people who are looking to shoot fireworks and send 2020 out with a bang,” she said.

Mitchell said sales started to increase around Canada Day when the company usually puts on more than 60 fireworks displays but couldn’t because of the pandemic.

“Production has really suffered, and we put a call out come Canada Day saying, ‘we can’t do it, so please do it for us.’ People responded, and the response has been amazing,” said Mitchell. “The consumer sales are helping us weather the storm, which is fantastic, and it will be great to hear all the fireworks going off. It just won’t be a produced show by us, but that’s OK.”

COVID-19 has generated a lot of first-time fireworks buyers, said Mitchell.

“I heard a lot of stories about how they visited us for the first time over Canada Day and shot fireworks for the first time, had an amazing time and they want to do it again for New Year’s,” said Mitchell.

“So, that has really opened a lot of doors for us in the sense that people who necessarily wouldn’t have considered fireworks in the past are considering them now… if there is any silver lining to the COVID cloud, that would be it.”

Archangel’s phone has been ringing off the hook as it tries to get fireworks to everyone who wants them. Mitchell added the company’s website crashed on Saturday because it was so busy. The store on Pembina Highway is closed because fireworks aren’t considered essential, but they are taking orders online and by phone, and providing curbside pickup.

Residents who plan to put on a fireworks show, must get a permit from the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service. Winnipeggers can obtain a permit by applying on the City of Winnipeg’s website or by emailing fireinspections@winnipeg.ca.

As of Wednesday evening, one high-hazard fireworks permit, and four consumer low-hazard fireworks permits for Dec. 31 had been issued.

“In order to obtain a permit for consumer low-hazard fireworks, residents must be able to meet the following condition: your firing base must be a minimum of 30 metres in every direction from the nearest building structure, neighbouring property line or public land,” said a spokesperson from the City of Winnipeg.

Additional fireworks guidelines include: roman candles must have a clearance of at least 30 metres by 30 metres, make sure there are no overhead wires, branches or other obstructions, keep a pail or container of water nearby for disposal of fireworks, and nobody may set off a firework into any building, vehicle or into any street or public place. All spectators should maintain a safe distance of a minimum of 100 feet from the firing base.

The city added to set off fireworks safely, bury all long fireworks at least halfway down into the firing base and light them at an arm’s length with your face turned away, wear goggles and light the fuse at its tip.

People who live outside Winnipeg must check with the local municipal authority for regulations or conditions that may apply.

kellen.taniguchi@freepress.mb.ca