Edmonton firefighters battle 3 grass fires linked to ‘unpermitted’ fireworks on Diwali
Posted November 9, 2026 1:01 pm.
Edmonton’s fire department says it received 23 fireworks-related calls over the weekend, during the ongoing celebration of Diwali.
Of those, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) says firefighters were dispatched to three grass fires that resulted from “unpermitted fireworks.”
Those grass fires were near 41 Avenue and 344 Street SW; 34 Avenue and Meridian Street; and 34 Avenue and Calgary Trail.
“Crews successfully contained the fires and protected surrounding properties,” EFRS told CityNews in a statement.
EFRS says all remaining calls were forwarded to “other appropriate teams for follow-up and investigation.”
In a video posted to Facebook, an Edmonton firefighter can be seen spraying water on flames at a grassy area near some trees.
“There is a reason why you don’t set fire work off over naturalized tall dead grass,” Tarara Aech wrote on Facebook. “My dog was outside and terrified from what happened, thank goodness we were awake to call the Edmonton Fire Rescue Services – who came in less than two minutes. Property could have been lost, lives could have been lost.”
In another video posted to the Millwoods Community Group Facebook page, a doorbell camera appears to capture the moment fireworks — very close to homes — start small fires near a fence. Individuals in the video can be seen rushing to stamp out the flames.
Only those with an EFRS permit are allowed to use fireworks in Edmonton. The City of Edmonton is asking residents to adhere to the city’s firework rules, or risk a fine up to $10,000 and potential criminal charges.
Indians around the world celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights that symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. The festivities end Wednesday.
