Toronto police to be out in force this weekend at east end beach ahead of Canada Day
Toronto residents should expect to see an increased police presence at Ashbridges Bay Park and Woodbine Beach Park all weekend ahead of Canada Day, police said on Friday.
Insp. Michael Hayles, spokesperson for the Toronto Police Service, said officers will be patrolling on horseback, on foot and all terrain vehicles for the official city fireworks display, which will be at the Ashbridges Bay Park starting at 10 p.m. Tuesday. City bylaw officers will also be there.
"Please leave your fireworks at home and please remember that personal alcohol is not permitted at the beach," Hayles said.
"If there is a threat to public safety, obstruction of our officers or other emergency services, officers will use their discretion in dispersing the crowd or laying charges."
Simply possessing fireworks and bringing them to the beach can result in a fine, he added.
Hayles said bonfires are also not allowed within Toronto parks without a permit. If residents obtain permits for a bonfire, there are only certain areas where they are permitted.
Some road closures in and around Lakeshore Boulevard East will be in effect before and after the fireworks display.
The city is planning fireworks displays at five other locations in Toronto: Centennial Park, Amesbury Park, Milliken Park, Stan Wadlow Park and Mel Lastman Square.
There will be no fireworks display at Nathan Phillips Square.
Fireworks allowed only on residents' own private property: city
In a news release, the city said: "Residents are allowed to set off fireworks on their own private property without a permit before 11 p.m. on Canada Day and Victoria Day. A permit is needed to set off fireworks on all other days.
"Fireworks are not permitted in City parks or on beaches, balconies, streets, parking lots or property that is not owned by the person setting off the fireworks."
The misuse or illegal sale of fireworks can be reported to 311 by phone or by submitting a service request.
Laura McQuillan, spokesperson for the city, said on Friday that the city is advising people to take public transit for the celebrations.
"Be cognizant that there may be more traffic out there. Take transit if you can," McQuillan said.
On its website, the TTC says it will provide extra service on Canada Day "to help customers travelling around the city to various events and fireworks displays."
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