TWO women, passionate about banning 'big bangs,' have started a group to stop unregulated selling of fireworks on the side of highways and shops.
Taryn Coghlan and Sharon Pettigrew have started a campaign to curb the use of fireworks, especially those 'large bombs' that go off over this period from October to December and to ensure that the legislation is upheld. Their group, Community Against Fireworks, started in Johannesburg and is drawing signatures from supporters from as far afield as Cape Town.
“It is a hard slog and with the limited time we have, we so desperately need help. We have more than 8000 signatures so far and have had articles published. The vets, pet shops and many local businesses have really gone out of their way to assist us. I am having meetings with various community police forums and ratepayers' associations and intend to create an awareness around the country,” said Taryn.
“Many owls, which are responsible for keeping our ever present rat population down and birds are killed every year due to the bright lights and bangs. They are startled and with the result, fly into electric fences and walls. People throw crackers into neighbouring yards or they fall from the sky, causing damage to property and unsuspecting animals. The Animal Protection Act clearly states that it is an offence to terrorise or abuse animals, yet through allowing fireworks, this abuse and terrorisation continues,” said Taryn.
She said over New Year, most people set off fireworks, did so after a lot of alcohol consumption and were therefore, in their inebriated state, not very responsible, thus making this activity even more dangerous especially as it is in close proximity to children and animals. Many injuries result from this irresponsible behaviour. There have been cases of people and animals being badly hurt and in some cases even losing their limbs.
“This physical scarring could so easily be avoided if we had regulations in place. We are not allowed to drive under the influence of alcohol but we can set off fireworks after having drinks. This does not make any sense!” she said.
The women said the use of fireworks has also caused serious friction between neighbours, communities, religious and ethnic groups.
“People are setting off fireworks in complexes, parks, in the street and their backyards. They behave as though they are above the law, with no fear of prosecution. Furthermore, they become aggressive when asked by their neighbours to stop. Vendors sell fireworks on street corners, flea markets, grocery shops and even at off-ramps of highways. In some areas, shops have been opened for the sole purpose of selling fireworks with no fear that they will be shut down or fined,” said Taryn.
The group has highlighted Noise and Pollution Legislation Acts and municipal by-laws which are not being policed and stated all municipalities had effectively failed their residents by not enacting the legislation and by-laws.
“People are get angrier every year with fireworks. Legislation and municipal by-laws have to be changed and policing must become a priority,” said Taryn.
If you want to get involved by signing the petition, contact Taryn on 082 336 2190.
