NEW Year’s Eve normally see the skies lit up by fireworks, but many seem unaware of

the laws that govern the use of fireworks..

Every festive season there are numerous complaints and reports of misuse of fireworks and the injury they cause to

humans and animals.

Over the years a number of reports have been received about terrified animals hurting themselves trying to escape

the loud explosions.

Several cases where children were badly burnt whilst either playing with fireworks or just being in the vicinity

where fireworks had been discharged, are on record.

As per the  Fireworks Bylaws:

• A person may not use or discharge any fireworks in or from any enclosed place where domesticated animals are

present, or in or from any public place without prior written permission from the Inspector of Explosives.

• No person shall allow or permit any children under the age of 16 to handle or use fireworks except under the

supervision of an adult person and it will be regarded as unlawful for any person under the age of 16 to possess any

fireworks for any reason.

• No fireworks shall be discharged during a wind storm.

• Fireworks shall be detonated as far possible from hospitals, clinics, petrol stations, old age and nursing homes,

animal welfare organisations and institutions.

• The Chief Fire Officer may for religious, cultural, ceremonial or festive purposes, give written permission for the

controlled discharge of fireworks by a registered pyro technician at an approved place and date, but is subject to

such conditions as the Chief Fire Officer may deem appropriate.

Police captain Thulani Zwane says, ‘Those that deal in fireworks without licenses would be charged.

‘We advise children to use fireworks under the supervision of their parents and they must not be used in public

places as it might injure other people.’