Town petitions explosives
We are, however, calling on the community to support us in our plight and would appreciate their presence at the station.
LYDENBURG – A petition containing more than 1 500 signatures will be handed over to Lydenburg SAPS on Monday December 11 in order to try and put an end to fireworks in town.
Cathy Schutte of Home 4 Paws started this petition earlier this year after many dogs ended up in the shelter last year on account of fireworks. “Most of these dogs ran away because they were scared of the explosive noises. More than half of the dogs taken in were never claimed again.
“We are not talking about the display of the brightly coloured, novelty fireworks which include fountains, ground spinners and sparkles, but those that give off a loud bang, similar to that of gunshots,” explained Schutte.
She said dogs feared the sound of crackers and this infringes on their rights as animals. Last week the newspaper reported that all fireworks fall under the Explosives Regulations Act.
“The Act stipulates that it is unlawful for any person to use or explode any fireworks in any building, or in any public place or resort except with the prior written permission of the local authority.”
The Act further states that any person who by any act or omission commits a breach of any of the regulations of this chapter, shall be guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months, or both.
Marcelle Hoffman, the SPCA inspector in Mbombela, will take part in the handover. Schutte called upon all residents to support this cause. “There will be no march. We will simply be handing over the petition at 10:00 on Monday.
We are, however, calling on the community to support us in our plight and would appreciate their presence at the station.” Enquiries: Schutte on 082-462-5754.
