We support the public display of fireworks (New Years Eve, Canada Day, and Halloween) but would like the provincial government to ban the sales of fireworks to the general public.

Municipal by-laws restricting sales are ineffective and difficult to enforce when people can go elsewhere to purchase fireworks.

The fireworks season,  which continues for much longer than one night, causes  suffering to domestic animals and wildlife. Many dogs and cats are particularly vulnerable and injuries are often incurred if they escape the security of their homes. We have a responsibility to care for animals, both urban and wild; our desire to be entertained in our backyard should not supercede their right to a safe and fear-free environment.

Fireworks can trigger episodes of PTSD in combat veterans http://www.cbc.ca/radio/asithappens/as-it-happens-friday-edition-1.3137224/u-s-combat-vets-warn-fourth-of-july-fireworks-can-trigger-trauma-1.3137450

Firework related fires accounted for 28 fires in 2014 in BC.(http://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/public-safety-and-emergency-services/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/embc/fire-safety/bc_fire_facts_factsheet_oct14_2015.pdf

However, for many of us, it's an unnecessary cause of stress - loud bangs that go on for months affecting everyone from sleeping babies to the elderly.

We believe it is time for a change!