Shíshálh Nation has been forced to snuff out its traditional Halloween fireworks display because of COVID-19, while fireworks bans remain in place in the Town of Gibsons and District of Sechelt.
“Due to COVID our council didn’t feel the fireworks could be done safely because normally the beachfront is jam-packed with people and it’s not possible to physically distance,” said shíshálh Nation hiwus (chief) Warren Paull in a statement to Coast Reporter.
“The fireworks have been a tradition, brought to the greater community by the Nation for many years; we look forward to seeing everyone next year,” Paull added.
“Have a happy and safe Halloween from everyone at the Nation.”
As for private fireworks displays, according to Sunshine Coast RCMP Staff Sgt. Poppy Hallam, one homeowner in Gibsons has been issued a fireworks permit for Halloween, but otherwise residents who possess, discharge or sell fireworks will face fines up to $400. In Sechelt, people could face $250 fines for the commercial sale or unauthorized possession or discharge of fireworks. As of Oct. 26, no permits have been requested.Rules are looser in the rural areas, since the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) doesn’t have any specific fireworks bylaws. Instead, enforcement will be applied through its noise bylaw, said Hallam. Fines of $100 could apply to noise disturbances after 11 p.m.
The BC Centre for Disease Control has advised that people “avoid using props that can cause coughing, such as smoke machines.”
RCMP, meanwhile, is reminding hosts that gatherings of up to 50 people are subject to provincial health orders and they could face fines of up to $2,000 if noncompliant. Gatherings in excess of 50 people are banned.
Individuals who encourage others to attend noncompliant gatherings or who refuse to comply with requests to follow public health officer orders for the safe operation of a restaurant, bar or licensed establishment, or respond with abusive behaviour towards employees, are subject to $200 violation tickets.
“Police will be out on patrol looking out for the safety of tricker-or-treaters. With all things COVID, it is expected that people will be following the rules and keeping gatherings small; adhering to physical distancing,” said Hallam in an email.
“The Sunshine Coast RCMP are wishing all residents a safe and festive Halloween weekend. We hope people enjoy time with family and close friends in their bubble and find innovative ways to participate in trick-or-treating activities.”
