Exercise caution during big bangs

The City of Johannesburg’s public safety department has already started the city-wide bylaws enforcement operations in a bid to make sure that all fireworks wholesalers, resellers and dealers are complying with the City’s fire services bylaws, safe use of fireworks and fireworks displays.

Wholesalers and resellers who do not comply with the City’s bylaws will be issued with fines which range from R1 500, depending on the infringement and all fireworks will be seized from their premises.
The City urged residents to take care when setting off fireworks during Guy Fawkes.

Robert Mulaudzi, spokesperson for the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services said, “As citizens get ready to celebrate Guy Fawkes, with a bang, the City has warned residents to use fireworks with care. Every year accidents happen, injuring children, adults and animals when fireworks are misused or abused.”

When it comes to setting off fireworks, there are rules and the City reminds citizens about the bylaws, which state that no one under the age of 16 is allowed to handle or use fireworks, except if they are supervised by an adult.

Retailers may not sell fireworks to a child under the age of 16. Fireworks are prohibited in certain areas, including inside buildings, on agricultural holdings, at schools, old age homes and hospitals and within 500 metres of an explosives factory, explosives storage unit or petrol station.

Fireworks should be handled by adults and children should watch the display from a distance.
Animals should be well taken care of and protected, while fireworks are being set off.

“As many pet owners know, fireworks and thunderstorms can cause a great deal of stress for some animals. They shake, tremble, drool excessively, bark, refuse to eat and they try to hide or get into the house.

“During celebrations, animals should be kept indoors. It is also advisable to close the curtains and turn on the television or radio to distract the pets. A quiet place, such as a carrier, may give a sense of security and comfort,” he said.

Frightened animals could hurt themselves and even escape if left alone and the results could be fatal. “Frightened animals running loose are in great danger of being hit by cars.”

Those who will be celebrating Guy Fawkes are allowed to use fireworks between 7pm and 10pm and residents are urged to adhere to the bylaws.

The City of Johannesburg’s public safety department said it would continue with fireworks compliance bylaws throughout the week to make sure that all residents enjoy their new year celebrations safely.

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