Police are issuing a warning to Montreal Canadiens fans – enjoy the hockey game, but let’s keep the fireworks on the ice, not in the streets. The Habs are set to play Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final series on Thursday night against the Carolina Hurricanes. While it’s an away game, Montreal sports fans will be attending watch parties around the city. No watch party has been announced in front of the Bell Centre. Montreal police issued a news release Wednesday saying they’re taking a zero-tolerance approach to prohibited activities, and specifically that the possession or use of pyrotechnics, fireworks, smoke bombs, or smoke-generating devices is strictly banned during gatherings within Montreal. “These items can cause serious injuries, trigger panic, compromise crowd safety, and pose a fire hazard, particularly when incandescent debris falls onto flammable surfaces,” the news release said. Anyone in possession of, or who ignites, one of these devices will face a fine of $500 to $5,000. “Police officers will intervene immediately upon observing, handling, or using any fireworks or smoke bombs in a prohibited setting,” the release said. Two people fined after Game 7 Two people were handed fines for public mischief after the Montreal Canadiens’ 3-2 OT Game 7 victory against the Buffalo Sabres Monday night. Montreal police deployed riot police to intervene near the Bell Centre following the game, where thousands of fans were celebrating the on-the-road win. Fireworks caused the injury of a young child in one recent incident, and a second firework started a fire, according to police. “These situations demonstrate that such items can seriously compromise public safety,” said Montreal police Cmdr. François Sauvé. The police force said it intends to increase its on-the-ground presence during crowded events and gatherings throughout the summer, with specialized teams, as well as foot, bicycle, and vehicle patrols.
