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Fireworks lit during a celebration.
Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate festive occasions such as New Year’s Eve and Diwali, but authorities are urging revellers to be cautious when using them.
Emergency services personnel across Gauteng have issued a stern warning about the risks of misuse, while the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCSA) has raised concerns about the distress fireworks can cause to pets and other animals.
Gauteng’s major cities, Tshwane, Johannesburg, and Ekurhuleni are warning revellers and fireworks sellers to play it safe when discharging fireworks.
Emergency services teams say they will be on high alert on New Year’s Eve, ready to respond to any fireworks-related incidents.
“Safety precautions, we are saying the city may or the residents may display fireworks between 23:00 until early morning at 1 am, that is the range of two hours that is permissible,” says Ekurhuleni EMS spokesperson Eric Maloka.
City of Johannesburg Spokesperson Kagiso Phasha says they will conduct operations that will focus on fire risk reduction, emergency safety and compliance with fireworks regulations.
“Including the sale, storage and use of fireworks. If the conditions are found to be unsafe, emergency services may order the stopping of activities or the evacuation of buildings to prevent fires, injuries and saving lives,” City of Johannesburg Spokesperson Kagiso Phasha.
Meanwhile City of Tshwane Spokesperson Nana Kgiba says people are not allowed to sell fireworks on the road.
“ We are in collaboration with the TMPD that will be out there to ensure that those that are selling illegally are dealt with in terms of the law.”
Fireworks retailers say strict safety rules are enforced to ensure responsible sales.
“Consumers are not supposed to reach the fireworks. So, all fireworks are behind the counter. Only the staff is behind the counter and they are not allowed to reach the fireworks until purchased. We advise all the buyers on how to use the products,” says Fireworks Pretoria Owner Reshaad Omar.
VIDEO| People warned about unauthorised fireworks outlets:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUFnHpITtlw
Not only human beings are vulnerable to fireworks, but animals too, especially during this period.
They often go missing, suffer injuries, or try to protect themselves from the noise.
“We see a lot of fireworks during the period of holiday season and this is traumatising for animals because they don’t understand the loud noise and brightness that comes with fireworks so they often panic which leads them to hide from the loud noise and the bang and as a result hurt themselves,” says NSPCA spokesperson Samantha Stelli.
Omar says there are fireworks that are pet friendly. “Fireworks which don’t make any sort of bang but give you the enjoyment of fireworks.”
VIDEO| NSPCA has asked for consideration for pets when using fireworks:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGIGlZQkZ8U
Meanwhile, the City of Tshwane which will be hosting its crossover festival at the Fountains Valley on New Year’s Eve says no fireworks will be allowed on the premises.
