Keep animals, people safe from fireworks

ER24 urges people to be careful when igniting fireworks as paramedics have in the past attended to people who sustained injuries in incidents involving fireworks. The incorrect use of fireworks could lead to severe or fatal injuries. With Guy Fawkes and Diwali upon us, take time to read these pointers for you and your animals.

Isabel Wentzel of NSPCA said: “We have been asking all over on radio, television on Facebook to make people realise what the law says about how you can’t fire off fireworks in a residential area.”

“Unfortunately, there are some things that people resist,” she added.

“We also appeal to the public to look after their own animals on such an occasion.”

Below are some safety tips:
1. While it is advised to leave the handling of fireworks to the professionals, if other adults choose to ignite them, they should ensure they are allowed to ignite them where and when they plan on doing so. Only use fireworks in legal designated areas. Check with your local council or municipality before igniting fireworks.
2. Never ignite fireworks while under the influence of liquor.
3. Remember that igniting fireworks and continuing to hold them in your hand while lit could lead to severe injuries. Do not fool or run around with ignited fireworks.
4. Ensure that your clothes are not close or hanging over the fireworks when you ignite them. Also ensure that you do not ignite fireworks in confined spaces, near people, houses, vehicles, other flammable materials or substances, dry grass or bush as well as in containers and manholes.
5. Keep in mind that fireworks can backfire or go off in the wrong direction.
6. Keep water or a fire extinguisher close by should there be an emergency.
7. Treat fireworks that are not ignited as dangerous. A spark or open flame can set off fireworks if they are left in close proximity.
8. Keep fireworks away from children. Depending on their age, they may not understand how to use them, may not understand the repercussions should the fireworks not be handled properly or may want to experiment with them not thinking about the consequences.
9. Keep in mind that pets are affected by the loud noises. They may panic, run away, try to seek shelter or be injured. Take precautionary measures to ensure they are safe. Do not under any circumstances light fireworks near animals.
10. Keep emergency numbers handy. ER24’s Emergency Contact Centre can be reached 24 hours a day on 084 124 for any medical emergency

SPCA Benoni has also shared tips on getting pets ready for fireworks, or even thunderstorms:

1. Ensure dogs get plenty of exercise during in the day. Good strong walks and or a few games. Play lots of games with your cats.
2. It is a must to keep pets indoors when thunderstorms or fireworks are expected, preferably with human companionship.
3. Make sure all windows and doors are closed tightly, close curtains and doors where possible to block out flashing lights and sounds.
4. Give them toys, favourite treats and other distractions to keep pets occupied. A frozen treat like a chicken stock lolly is advised to keep them busy.
5. It would be best if family (or some) stayed at home with your pet if fireworks or thunderstorms are expected.
6. Make sure your pet is micro-chipped or tagged on collar for easy identification if they become lost.
7. Discuss with your vet about supplements and medication for managing anxiety caused by loud noises.
8. Even if you have to start your evening early feed the animals well before things are predicted to start. Have music on or the television on to muffle the sound but not too loud. Hopefully by the time it starts animals are fed and relaxing on full tummies.
9 Don’t fuss or get over emotional with or punish your pets if they become agitated with the sounds; doing so only encourages the behaviour and can become worse.
10 Carry on your evening as if all is normal and ignore their fearful behaviour, unless it is hazardous to the animal.
11 Give your animals a safe secure place, preferably indoors, so that the pet can’t escape your property if it is startled by loud noises.
12 If the animals want to hide in one of your cupboard, allow them if they choose. A lines cupboard or clothes cupboard can work well. Get it ready for them when scared of sounds they can’t pinpoint the location of, dogs and cats often prefer small enclosed areas.
13 If a pet runs to hide in a corner or under the bed, don’t try to coax them out, let them be where it feels safe. They’ll probably come out in their own time.
14 Owners should ensure that they themselves are calm and stress free so that their pets fear doesn’t mirror theirs.
15 Harming an animal with fireworks is a criminal offence. Concerned members of the public are urged to report any acts of alleged cruelty to their local SPCA 24 hour emergency no. They can also contact their local police to lodge complaints regarding the illegal use of fireworks.