Private fireworks sales explode in Winnipeg after New Year's displays banned due to COVID-19

The usual large, dazzlingNew Year Eve's fireworks displays cannot happen this year because of COVID-19 restrictions. But onefirework seller in Winnipeg saysthey've seen a boom of new private customers.

Archangel Fireworks'production revenue has taken a hit of roughly 95 per cent due to the pandemic, saidCandice Mitchell, director of sales and events for the Winnipeg firework shop. But there has been a massive spike in new customers.

"People who don't generally think of fireworks are being forced outside the box," said Mitchell.

"There are a lot of new consumers, who have never tried fireworks before, who aretrying them.There are a lot of eventslike graduations, for example, who can't host large dinnersthat were looking for alternatives."

Manitoba went into red level, or critical, public health restrictions on Nov. 12. The restrictions, which are in place until at least Jan. 8, 2021, prohibit public gatherings large than five people. Private gatherings are limited to people living in the same household, unless a person lives alone, in which case they can be in a bubble with one other household.

But it was around Canada Daywhen the company first noticed an increase in individual sales, Mitchellsaid.

"We put a call out and a challenge to all of the people who were able to do it themselves for their families," Mitchell said.

"We've really seen an increase in people who have never done fireworks before who are stepping up to the table for the first time over Canada Day and now New Year's, so it's really exciting."

Different kind of holiday boom

Canada Day is usually the most profitable time of the year for Archangel, as ittypically puts on up to 60 displays, according to Mitchell. But the firework seller is having a busy holiday season as well.

Two customers contributing to the holiday boom are Terry Shaw and his son Hudson, who stopped by Archangel to buy a "mish-mash" of fireworks to ring in the new year.

"Typically we stay home on New Year's [Eve]," said Shaw. "We're lucky we live on the river, so there's plenty of room for us to enjoy somefireworks. We're justcontinuingthat tradition."

While fireworkshavebeen a tradition for the Shaw family for a couple of years,this year they wanted to say goodbye to 2020 "with a bang," Shaw said.

Young Hudson says he likes setting off the fireworks, but his favourite part is the big bangs and loud pops during the grand finale.

WATCH|Boom in backyard fireworks sales before New Year's Eve:

Backyard fireworks sales boom before New Year

4 years ago

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The usual large, dazzling New Year Eve's fireworks displays cannot happen this year because of COVID-19 restrictions. But one firework seller in Winnipeg says they've seen a boom of new private customers.

Archangel stresses safetyand advisesnewbies on how to set up their own custom fireworks display, Mitchell said.

The City of Winnipeg has detailed information on how to safely conduct a fireworks display.

Anyone wanting to set off fireworks within City of Winnipeg limits must have a permit. People in Winnipeg can download an application form from the city's website or email fireinspections@winnipeg.ca.

No one may set off fireworks on city land unless they have permission from the department responsible for the land. The city parks department requires up to 10 days to process an application.

If you don't own the property, you must get written consent from the owner before setting off fireworks.

People living outside the City of Winnipeg should contact their local municipal authority to learn about regulations.

The spot where the fireworks are set off must be at least 100 feet (about 30 metres)away from any structures, which would exclude most residential properties, the city's website says.

Roman candles must have a clearanceof at least 30 metres by 30 metres or 900 square metres.

Individuals setting off fireworks need to make sure there are no overhead wires, branches or other obstructions, and keep a pail of water, garden hoseor fire extinguisher nearby to dispose of the fireworks.

No one may set off fireworks into any building or vehicle, or into any street or public place.

To set off fireworks safely, bury all long fireworks at least halfway down into the firing base. Light all fireworks at arms length, preferably with a lighting stick, standing back and keeping your face turned away, and light the fuse at the tip. Wear safety glasses or goggles.

Don't fire in windy conditions, and store fireworks in a cool, dry, ventilated place in a locked container, away from children.