WITH the annual Diwali, Guy Fawks and New Years’ celebrations around the corner, the Durban Metro Police warned the public that they could face a ‘spot fine’ of R1500, should they not follow the municipal by-laws.
Durban Metro Police spokesman, Senior Superintendent Parboo Sewpersad said fireworks can only be lit from sunset until midnight on these days.
He appealed to the public to be considerate as they celebrate with fireworks.
Here are some of the by-laws governing the lighting of fireworks:
• Low-hazard fireworks, such as fountains, lawn lights and sparkles can be lit in private homes.
• Fireworks such as air bombs, supersonic bangs, sound shells, fountain whistles and screeches are prohibited as they cause a disturbance and are a nuisance to neighbours.
• The bylaw also called for children under 16 years of age to be properly supervised by an adult when letting off fireworks.
• Fireworks should be detonated away from hospitals, clinics, old age/nursing homes, animal welfare and petrol stations. Fireworks should not be pointed towards any person as this is dangerous.
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• No person shall ignite, discharge or explode any fireworks on any public road, residence, or private dwelling without the knowledge and consent of the occupant or owner of the property.
• It shall be unlawful for any person to point or direct a firework at any person, animal, building or motor vehicle where such firework is in the process of exploding or detonating.
• No person shall light or detonate fireworks in any place where animals are kept.
• No person may terrify, cause stress or endanger the life of any animal with fireworks or by any other means.
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• Residents are also reminded that fireworks cannot be recycled and therefore they need to be disposed appropriately, in the black bin bags.
• The Municipality urges residents not to dispose fireworks in the orange refuse bags as this is deemed unsafe since fireworks cannot be recycled. Residents are requested to be responsible and comply with the fireworks and waste bylaw.
Sewpersad urged pet owners to ensure that their pets are fitted with a collar with an identification tag on which states their home address and telephone number.
For emergencies please call 031-3610000
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