Fireworks do’s and don’ts this New Year’s

The letting off of fireworks is a hot topic.

Every year it happens and is accompanied by angry residents who have to deal with the fallout – whether it be terrified pets, elderly or frail family members kept awake, fire hazards, or wild animals driven to distraction by the loud bangs and bright flashes.

Ward 22 DA Councillor Malcolm Hubner, had previously told the Courier there was no absolute ban on fireworks in KwaDukuza, but that fireworks could only be set off under very specific circumstances as defined in the bylaws.

A campaign that saw early promise a few years ago which proposed a ban, stating that fireworks should be only allowed on New Year’s Eve between 11.45pm on December 31 until 12.15am of the new year, unfortunately did not come to fruition.

According to the bylaws, available on KwaDukuza’s website, fireworks are allowed only on November 5 (Guy Fawkes), the week of Diwali and on January 1.

So, legally, fireworks may only be lit after midnight.

Warrant officer Vinny Pillay, spokesperson for Umhlali SAPS asked residents to please be respectful of their neighbours and take noise levels into consideration.

“Fireworks may only be set off from midnight and we ask the public to please limit themselves to displays between midnight and 2am,” Pillay appealed.

The bylaws further state, “It shall be unlawful for any person to use or explode any fireworks (i) within 500m of any explosives magazine, explosives factory, petroleum depot or gas meter; or (ii) in any building or on any public thoroughfare.”

“No person, other than a technician, shall operate a public display of fireworks on any premises without the written permission of the Explosives Department and the local designated fire officer.”

Certain types of fireworks are illegal, including “firecrackers larger than 50mm long and 12mm diameter, match crackers or match strike firecrackers commonly known as ‘Bombs’, e.g. Indian King, King India, Classic Foils etc.”

Pet safety

If you have pets it is important to be prepared for the night ahead, keep your pets safe indoors and give them a place where they can hide, turning up the TV or radio may help as well.

Remember to check that your pet’s name tag and ID chip (if they have one) are up to date – just in case.

If you suspect someone of contravening the bylaws or setting of fireworks that endanger property or life, contact Umhlali Police at 032-947 9900 or Ballito Fire & Emergency Services at 032-437 5570.

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