The general safety of South African inhabitants is sustained by the South African Police Service (SAPS) cohesively with other law enforcement agencies and role players, and the underlying implementation of diverse legislation as part of the Safer Festive Season.

Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, police spokesperson, says the New Year celebrations tend to be a challenge, particularly compliance with the use of fireworks.

“The public is reminded that fireworks in the country are controlled in terms of the Explosives Act, 1956 (Act no 26 of 1956). Various municipalities have by-laws that restrict and give guide about the use or discharge of fireworks.”

The public is reminded of the importance of applying precautionary measures and safety tips when discharging any fireworks to ensure their general safety:

• Only wholesale and retail dealers that are licenced in terms of the Explosives Act, and who are in possession of a valid licence issued by the Chief Inspector of Explosives, may deal in the sale of fireworks.
• No fireworks may be sold by a street hawker or vendor at a flee market, from the boot of a vehicle / trailer /”spaza shop.”
• Do not use or discharge fireworks in any public place or resort, except with the prior written permission of the local authority.
• Do not use or discharge fireworks in a building or any public thoroughfare.
• Do not use or discharge any fireworks within 500 meters of any explosive magazine, explosive factory, petroleum depot or gasometer.
• For your own safety, do not hold lit fireworks in your hand.
• Children should always use / light fireworks under the supervision of an adult / parent.
• Do not allow children to pick up pieces of fireworks immediately after it was discharged, some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.
• Keep pets away from fireworks and under control to ensure their safety.
• Never try to make your own fireworks.
• Always point fireworks away from persons, houses and flammable substances.
• Stand back from all fireworks once they are lit.
• Have a bucket of water of hose nearby.

Tselanyane continues to say it is important to note that Regulation 5(e) under section 25 of the Environment Conservation Act, 1989 (Act 73 of 1989) stipulates that no person shall use or discharge any explosive, firearm or similar device which emits impulsive sound, or allow it to be used or discharged, if it may cause a noise nuisance, except with the prior consent in writing of the local authority concerned and subject to such conditions as the local authority deem necessary.