The City of Richmond is hosting an open house to discuss ongoing noise issues.
The impact of noise in evolving communities is a "complex issue," according to the city and it wants the public to get involved.
At a drop-in style event, the city is asking people to join noise experts and city staff to discuss a noise bylaw review and proposed amendments on Thursday, Oct. 27, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Richmond City Hall, 6911 No. 3 Rd.
Richmond's recent growth, along with technological advancements in noise measurement since the implementation of the city's Public Health Protection Bylaw 6989 in 2000, has prompted the city to review the bylaw.
As such, the city has contracted independent outside noise experts to assist with an in-depth assessment of the effectiveness of the current noise regulations. They will provide input on the generally accepted systems for the identification and measurement of noise and establish and implement a fair and consistent regulatory framework for amendments to our noise bylaw.
A survey is available at the open house and online at www.richmond. ca/NoiseRegulation.
FIREWORKS WARNING
Halloween may be a day full of tricks, treats and laughs, but Richmond FireRescue and RCMP would like to remind the community that fireworks are no joke.
Fireworks, and especially firecrackers, can be very dangerous, which is why they are illegal to possess, buy or sell in Richmond.
This year, a zero tolerance approach will be taken. Under Richmond's Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, offences and fines include buying fireworks ($1,000 fine), selling or distributing fireworks ($1,000 fine), displaying fireworks for the purpose of sale ($1,000 fine) or possession of fireworks without a permit ($250 fine).
The authorities advice is to leave the fireworks to the professionals and get out and enjoy the free annual pyrotechnics at Minoru Park where a live DJ, magician, costumed performers and fire jugglers will set the stage for a spectacular fireworks display starting at 6: 30 p.m.
Or drop by one of three community firework displays at South Arm Community Centre at 7: 45 p.m., West Richmond Community Centre at 8 p.m. and Hamilton (McLean Park) at 8: 15 p.m.
PET SAFETY
Still on Halloween, the SPCA are reminding people to take extra care of their pets on and around Oct. 31.
All those weird loud noises as well as the little people traffic in and out the house can be upsetting to your pet and can even lead to harm.
"Fireworks going off, a constantly ringing doorbell and the presence of costumed strangers can all cause animals to panic, putting both pets and people in danger," said Lorie Chortyk, BC SPCA general manager of community relations.
"When dogs and cats are frightened they are more likely to run away from their homes, jump out of open windows or dart into traffic. Stressed pets can also behave out of character - even scratching or biting people."
The BC SPCA offers these Halloween safety tips:
? Keep pets inside
? Pets who are inside have fewer opportunities to confront trick-or-treaters. Be sure to leave plenty of toys in the room for your pet so that he doesn't think he's being punished.
? If your pet finds the doorbell disturbing, consider disconnecting the doorbell for the night.
? Make sure your pet is wearing identification.
? Candy can lead to health problems such as diabetes and chocolate is dangerous because it contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
