30 June 2016Canada Day safety tips_ (press release) _ ** Ottawa ** - The City of Ottawa wants to help you make your Canada Day celebrations memorable – for all the right reasons.The following tips are courtesy of Ottawa Paramedic Service, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa Fire Services, By-law and Regulatory Services and Security and Emergency Management: ** Fireworks ** * Purchase fireworks from a reputable retailer and follow the label directions. * Fireworks must be discharged on private property, and by someone 18 years or older. * Fireworks must not cause danger to or nuisance any person and other property. * If you are heading downtown to see the fireworks, keep within designated areas only. Fences protect you from danger; do not climb over them to get a better view of the fireworks. * Fireworks often frighten pets. Leave them in the safety and comfort of home. * ** [ Fireworks safety tips ](http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/emergency-services/fire-services/fireworks-safety-tips) ** More regulations and requirements are listed on the ** Fireworks By-law on ottawa.ca . ** ** General safety ** * Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly – including planning ahead where you will seek shelter in adverse weather. * Know the signs and symptoms of ** [ heat illness ](http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/public-health/healthy-living/hot-weather) ** and take action immediately. * Drink plenty of water and keep hydrated when active or outdoors. * Be ** [ Sun Smart ](http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/public-health/healthy-living/sun-safety) ** - wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and light and loose clothing. * Do not bring glass containers downtown as they may accidently break and cause serious injuries to you or someone else. * Wear properly fitted and comfortable footwear. * If you take medication, bring it with you and include a current list of prescribed medications. * Keep a close eye on children and teach them to stay where they are if they get separated from you. * Know where the nearest lost-child tent is located. * If you are celebrating Canada Day at home, avoid disturbing your neighbours by keeping the music down after 11 p.m. * ** [ BBQ tips ](http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/emergency-services/fire-services/barbeques-balconies) ** * ** [ Campfires/Outdoor Fireplaces ](http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/emergency-services/fire-services/burn-permits) ** ** Alcohol ** If consuming alcohol, drink responsibly, stay in control and never drink and drive. You can reduce your risk of injury by following ** Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines ** For more information and tips, visit ** ottawa/ca ** or call 3-1-1.