Today, Toronto Police provided an update on community safety plans for the Victoria Day long-weekend. Large crowds are expected, and a policing plan is in place to help keep residents and visitors safe throughout the weekend.

A variety of resources will be in place in the Ashbridges Bay area from Sunday, May 17, to Monday, May 18. This will include the Mounted Unit, as well as officers patrolling on foot, ATVs, and bikes. Fire Services, EMS personnel, and City by-law officers will also be on scene.

Parking enforcement will be increased over the long weekend, and drivers should expect major delays due to road closures. Parking will also be restricted. People should consider taking public transit, if possible, and the TTC will be adding additional buses to routes.

The Service would like to remind people that bonfires and personal fireworks in City parks and on beaches is prohibited and could result in seizures and fines. Alcohol is also not permitted at Ashbridges Bay.

The Service will be closely monitoring security issues and will make appropriate adjustments to mitigate any potential risks to public safety. If there is a threat to public safety, or obstruction of officers or other emergency services, officers will use their discretion to disperse crowds or lay charges. If appropriate, we may also continue to investigate and make arrests or lay charges after an event has concluded.

Victoria Day Fireworks

The Ashbridges Bay Victoria Day Fireworks are taking place on Monday, May 18 at 10 p.m. The display will last approximately 14 minutes and can be seen on the boardwalk from Emdaabiimok Avenue (formerly Lower Coxwell Avenue) to Victoria Park Avenue.

Due to large crowds, drivers can expect major traffic delays and limited parking. On Monday, closures begin at 9:00 p.m. and will include:

• Emdaabiimok Avenue (formerly Coxwell Avenue) from Lake Shore Boulevard East to Eastern Avenue
• Lake Shore Boulevard East from Leslie Street to Queen Street East

Additional TTC buses will be added to the following routes:

• 22A Coxwell
• 64 Main
• 92A Woodbine

REMINDERS:

• Do not bring personal fireworks to the beach. The City will be providing a spectacular fireworks display that everyone can enjoy safely.
• Drinking alcohol on the beach is prohibited.
• Fires are not permitted in parks, beaches or public spaces, except for City-designed fire pits (which require a permit).
• If possible, take transit to and from the beach to avoid traffic and other parking issues. There will be limited road use during certain times in the evening.
• If you drive to the beach, be mindful of residents in the area. Do not block driveways or fire hydrants.
• Keep music at a reasonable level. Amplified sound such as DJ equipment and large wireless speakers are not permitted.
• Police and by-law officers will be patrolling the beach day and night.

More information about fireworks rules, safety tips and proper disposal is available at Toronto.ca/fireworks.