Incendiary ammunition, designed to ignite upon impact, is subject to strict legal controls in Canada. This type of ammunition typically contains chemical compounds that react with air or upon striking a target, generating intense heat and potentially starting fires. Examples include bullets containing phosphorus or other pyrotechnic substances.
The regulation of such ammunition is crucial for public safety and environmental protection. Uncontrolled use poses significant risks of accidental fires, property damage, and harm to individuals. Historically, international agreements like the St. Petersburg Declaration of 1868 have sought to limit the use of certain incendiary projectiles in warfare, reflecting long-standing concerns about their potential for unintended and devastating consequences. This concern extends to civilian ownership and use where the risks, though different in context, remain substantial.