NSPCA calls for restraint during Diwali
"Diwali is the 'Festival of Light' and its beauty is inherent, loud bangs form no part of it," states the NSPCA.
With Guy Fawkes and Diwali approaching, the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) calls for restraint, responsibility and consideration from all quarters during these festivals.
“Diwali is the ‘Festival of Light’ and its beauty is inherent, loud bangs form no part of it,” states the NSPCA.
“Guy Fawkes has no relevance to South Africa and it is questioned why it is ‘celebrated’ at all.”
A press statement by the NSPCA reads that it has become increasingly evident that individuals are using both events to utilise fireworks in a particularly anti-social manner.
This includes ignoring any restrictions and causing damage to property, as well as terrifying communities and animals.
The SPCA does not enforce the laws relating to the use of fireworks.
“The regulations, both local and national, are watertight,” reads the statement.
The Explosives Act is enforced by the police to whom matters of concern need to be reported.
This Act covers sale of fireworks, as well as issues relating to the discharge of fireworks in public places.
Local by-laws, which vary, regulate the discharge of fireworks on private property.
In some municipalities, permits are required, in other areas there is dispensation for Diwali between specified times.
It is illegal to sell fireworks in the open air.
Anyone with an animal is requested to be responsible and to ensure the animal’s safety and comfort.
The hearing of animals is far more acute and sensitive than the hearing of a human.
If a dog can hear a grasshopper eat, imagine what fireworks sounds like.
If fireworks are discharged in your area, the NSPCA advises pet owners to stay with their pets and keep them indoors.
If an animal is sensitive by nature, then consult your veterinarian for advice.
Do not give medication intended for humans to animals and above all, ensure that animals are not in danger of harming themselves if they run, even indoors, or react when a firework is discharged in the area.
Despite regulations and appeals for calm, this can occur.
“This opportunity is taken to ask everyone to ensure that animals have identification,” says the NSPCA.
Hooligan, dangerous and illegal behaviour relating to fireworks needs to be reported to the South African Police Service, giving full details, or to the Metro Police if they enforce by-laws in that specific area.
“On behalf of the SPCA movement in South Africa, we extend good wishes to everyone celebrating Diwali and we trust that this year, the celebrations will be in accordance with the true spirit of the Festival of Light, which is beauty, light, love and above all, compassion.”
Diwali will be celebrated on November 11 this year.
Chief SuptWilfred Kgasago, spokesman for the EMPD, says it is necessary to obtain a permit from the EMPD to set fireworks off in a residential area.
Those without a permit may receive a warning or spot fine ranging from R1 000 to R2 500.
Residents can contact the EMPD on 011 458 0911 or Springs police on 011 365 5719/20.
