The community is polarised about fireworks.
Over the years, celebration holidays such as Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Guy Fawkes have caused residents, both pro- and anti-fireworks, to debate or argue.
The Newcastle Advertiser spoke with a pyrotechnics expert for insight into this explosive matter.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the expert provided a brief oversight of the history of fireworks, and his thoughts on the burning issue.
“Fireworks are not a new invention; they have been around for many hundreds of years. Throughout the world, fireworks displays are used for many centuries, by many countries, to celebrate important occasions.”
The expert mentioned the prevalence of fireworks displays at New Year’s Eve celebrations across the globe, and their use in China for thousands of years.
“Fireworks have been used in the United Kingdom since 1605 to celebrate the safety of the King. On November 5 of that year, the Gunpowder Plot (involving Guy Fawkes) was foiled.”
Since the 15th century, the expert added, fireworks were used in Italy and Spain, while America has celebrated Independence Day with fireworks since the late 1700s.
“The American Pyrotechnics Association estimates more than 14 000 fireworks displays light up the U.S. skies each 4th of July.”
With the historical basis aside, the expert believed that the indiscriminate use of consumer fireworks should be banned.
He thought it inconsiderate of people to let of fireworks any day, especially at all hours of the day.
“In many municipalities, consumer fireworks are banned, and can only be used on specific days and times.”
The expert said if consumer fireworks were permitted, they should be used in demarcated areas at set times and dates.
In that way, pet owners could make necessary plans for animals to be taken care of.
“A professional fireworks display is different to the indiscriminate usage of consumer fireworks. Professional fireworks are done by specialists, who are registered with the SAPS.”
Specialists, he elaborated, were required to obtain permission from various Government departments, and only between specific times on predetermined dates.
With a professional display, the public were informed of the date and times.
“Consumer fireworks are not toys and not suitable for young children. You don’t give your children a box of matches and let them play with those matches.”
Concluding with precautions and an outline of proper firework usage, the expert advised adults to supervise any child shooting off consumer fireworks.
He also warned that instructions on fireworks labels be strictly obeyed.
“I hope this gives you a better perspective into fireworks.”
