Community Advisory
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Town of Oakville
Oakville Fire department ASKS residents to STAY AWAY FROM illegal fireworks known as “Sprite Bombs”
Oakville, March 24, 2009 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE In response to safety concerns, the Oakville Fire Department is asking residents to steer clear of illegal fireworks known as “Sprite Bombs” that have been recently found in many retail variety stores throughout Oakville.
“Due to the dangerous nature of these fireworks, “Sprite Bombs” are illegal products and are prohibited from sale in Canada,” explained Fire Chief Richard Boyes. “We’re concerned that these products might be mistaken as something to be eaten, especially by children or those with special needs.”
“Sprite Bombs” are small pea sized balls that are light grey in colour and can be easily mistaken as candy. Sold as novelty items, these fireworks contain a small amount of explosive material activated by throwing them to the ground or stepping on them. In some cases they were set off simply by opening the package.
“Unfortunately, retailers have unknowingly purchased illegal products from a travelling wholesaler,” added Boyes. “To date, store owners have been cooperative by immediately removing the illegal fireworks from their shelves and we appreciate their ongoing assistance.”
Similar concerns have been reported by both the Burlington and Hamilton Fire Departments. Store owners and managers are reminded to remove these items immediately from their shelves and to contact the Oakville Fire Department for safe disposal.
Residents who have purchased these items are asked to return the illegal fireworks to the location where they were purchased, inform the retailer of their concerns, and to contact the Oakville Fire Prevention Division at 905-338-4404.
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