(File photo/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Elliott Knopp

Firework Penalties

Meadow Lake RCMP to fine individuals illegally setting off fireworks

Aug 25, 2021 | 5:01 PM

After dealing with numerous complaints regarding fireworks being set off within city limits, the Meadow Lake RCMP is advising the public that fines will be enforced for offences moving forward.

According to police, the RCMP responded to several calls reporting gunfire throughout the course of the summer. While some of the calls were correctly reported, there were many incidents that were actually related to fireworks being illegally set off.

In an interview with meadowlakeNOW, Meadow Lake RCMP Commander S/Sgt Ryan How explained the community continues to see legitimate firearms threats, resulting in police being forced to respond to these incidents as if they are life-threatening.

“Quite often, these calls are reported as gunshots and require a priority response from police, which pulls resources away from other duties,” How said.

“In the vast majority of these complaints, it has been confirmed that the sounds were fireworks, but this doesn’t mitigate the impact these sounds have on the public in the middle of the night.”

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He added these incidents typically occur late at night, which often triggers other residents to wake up frightened that a violent incident could be happening near their home.

How mentioned the RCMP issued multiple warnings regarding these incidents while educating offenders on the impact the activity can have, but instances continued to occur despite the approach. Due to the lack of response from those in the community, police will take a more firm stance and fine people caught violating the bylaw.

He added penalties could become more severe depending on the circumstances of the situation.

“RCMP are responding to several of these types of calls a week. They are far too frequent. The decision was made to begin enforcement rather than education because the problem isn’t correcting,” How explained.

“The public could face criminal charges such as Mischief and Causing a Disturbance if the situation is deemed more serious than what would be appropriate for a bylaw ticket.”

The Municipal Noise Bylaw can carry a penalty of up to $2,000. Criminal Code offences can carry a more significant fine, and in some cases, a maximum sentence of two years in jail.

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elliott.knopp@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @ElliottKnopp