Get used to the idea of a Canada Day celebration sans fireworks; or during any other warmer weather celebration.

City of Cranbrook council last night voted to ban fireworks between April 1 and Oct. 31.

Council accepted option two of four presented to it: “That summer events, which includes the Canada Day celebration, are held without fireworks. This would support a ban of fireworks between April 1 and October 31, which is consistent with the open burning ban as established through the City’s Fire Service Bylaw.”

The first option was the maintain the status quo and continue to risk manage with a “decision based on conditions present at the time of the event,” as Cranbrook Fire and Emergency Services Chief Wayne Price’s report outlined.

Another option for council to consider but it didn’t: “That summer events, between April 1 and October 31 provide substitute entertainment in place of fireworks, as determined appropriate by Community Services event planning staff. ( i.e. laser shows, drone shows, outdoor concerts, festivals and a multiple or varied venue approach).”

Council liked a second option that suggested the city plan a winter community event that would include outdoor display fireworks.

Mayor Lee Pratt said the city should look into such a festival where fireworks could be enjoyed earlier in the evening for the enjoyment of the entire family and not pose any threat of fire.

This was the second crack at a fireworks ban for city council.

At its April 9 meeting, a motion based on a recommendation to prohibit fireworks between April 1 and October 31 was defeated. Council requested staff to consider and provide options to summertime outdoor fireworks displays.

The four options presented to council last night stemmed from that work.

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