Warning - Illegal Novelty Fireworks sold in Barrie

BARRIE, ON.- On March 16, 2009 Barrie Fire and Emergency Service responded to a complaint from a concerned citizen about illegal fireworks that look like candy being sold in a south end variety store. Fire Prevention Officers found a product, sold under the product name of “Sprite Bombs”, right on the front counter along with candy and other products marketed to children.

This product is marketed as a novelty item. It contains a small amount of explosive material and is activated by either throwing it to the ground or stepping on them. Although the amount of explosive material is relatively small, there is still a risk of injury, especially to children, which is why these fireworks are illegal products and are prohibited from sale in Canada.

The “Sprite Bomb” devices are so sensitive that they can explode while trying to remove them from the blister pack. The product and packaging are also similar in appearance to candy, and fire officials fear that children may be injured by mistaking these products for candy.

The Barrie variety store owner was not aware of the safety concern or that they were illegal. They were very cooperative and removed the product from their shelves immediately.

Any stores in possession of this illegal product are to remove them immediately from their shelves and are asked to contact the Fire Prevention Division of the Barrie Fire Department at 705-728-3199. Any citizens who may have purchased these devices are to return them to the point of purchase and advise the retailer of the concern or they can call the Fire Prevention Division.

Anyone who knows of stores selling these, or similar products, is asked to contact the Fire Prevention Division of the Barrie Fire Department at 705-728-3199. For more information, please contact:

Tracy Stevenson
Chief Fire Prevention Officer
Barrie Fire & Emergency Service
Phone : 739-4220 ext 3225