‘Use fireworks responsibly’ – JMPD
JOBURG – With the festive season around the corner, the Metro police urge residents to use fireworks responsibly.
Firework season is upon us and knowing the bylaws around them is imperative to staying out of the law’s way and keeping animals and other residents safe.
Fireworks are unpredictable and can dangerously shoot off in different directions, striking people and causing fires around homes.
In a previous statement about fireworks, spokesperson for the Metro police, chief superintendent Wayne Minnaar, said the public should understand that there are rules and regulations they need to abide by when using fireworks.
When Northcliff Melville Times spoke to him about this year’s celebrations and Diwali, in particular, Minnaar said those celebrating may use their fireworks between 7pm and 10pm during the festival of lights.
“We’re making an appeal to those celebrating to do so in a responsible manner and to keep fireworks away from animals – dogs in particular,” he said.
For other festivities coming up, fireworks may be used from 7pm to 10pm on Christmas Eve, Day of Goodwill and New Year’s Day. On New Year’s Eve, fireworks may be used from 11pm to 1am.
“The most important thing is that people keep fireworks away from animals. Every year they are traumatised by festivities and we really need to prevent them from getting hurt,” Minnaar said.
City of Johannesburg bylaws regarding fireworks:
- No person may deal in fireworks unless he or she holds the required fireworks licence
- No person under the age of 16 may use explosives without adult supervision
- Fireworks must not be used inside any building, on agricultural holdings, in public spaces or within 500 metres of an explosives factory or storage facility, petrol depot or petrol stations
- Those celebrating must use fireworks in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
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