Tshwane emergency services (EMS) encourages residents to use fireworks safely this upcoming festive season.
Fireworks can be incredibly dangerous, especially to children.
Discharging them can also be very stressful to animals and some people in the neighbourhood who do not appreciate loud bangs late at night.
Fireworks can cause serious burns, eye injuries, fractures, other traumatic injuries and death of children.
To shoot off fireworks is governed by strict by-laws. Pretoria residents are urged to familiarise themselves with the by-laws and to report any infringements to local police.
Pretoria’s by-laws mean that:
– Unless special council authorisation has been applied for and granted, there are only 11 days annually when residents are allowed to discharge fireworks. These days include special occasions where fireworks are traditionally part of the celebrations.
– Fireworks on these days can only be discharged between 19:00 and 22:00, except New Year’s Eve.
– No person may discharge fireworks in any place where animals are present. This includes domestic homes.
– No person may allow any minor to use fireworks. There are no exceptions to this rule.
– No person may use fireworks on any agricultural holding, school or senior citizens’ residence without special Council authorisation, which must be sought well in advance of the intended day.
– No person can use fireworks within 500m of any petrol depot or filling station without special Council authorisation.
– No person or organisation can present a fireworks display unless authorised to do so by the Council – at least 14 days’ notice before the display is required by the Council to consider such an application. Authorisation is also required from the Civil Aviation Authority and the chief inspector of explosives.
– A pyrotechnist and police explosives expert must be present at all times at firework displays.
– No person may deal in fireworks – sell or make available – unless they hold a fireworks licence in terms of the Explosives Act as well as the written authority of the chief fire officer.
Transgression of the by-laws can result in hefty fines and, often, multiple fines.
Additionally, there are some safety tips EMS recommends when dealing with fireworks:
– Store flammable items in safe places away from sources of ignition and fire.
– Store gas cylinders away from heat sources and make sure that they are properly maintained.
– Be careful when using alternative heating sources.
– Make sure that electrical wires are not exposed or bare.
– Do not overload extension cords or outlets.
– Decorative lighting safety: Check that Christmas lights are certified and free of frayed wires or broken bulbs. Do not overload power outlets and avoid placing lights near flammable materials, like curtains or Christmas trees.
– Keep your Christmas tree away from fireplaces and candles and ensure that it is secure to prevent tipping.
– Electrical appliance check: Before leaving for holiday trips, unplug all non-essential electrical appliances to reduce fire risks from electrical faults.
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