The Tshwane Emergency Services Department is asking the public to use fireworks safely this festive season.

Spokesperson Nana Radebe-Kgiba said that all private fireworks displays need to be approved by the department.

Radebe-Kgiba said that using fireworks safely requires an open area, away from structures and flammable materials, with a responsible adult supervising.

She urged the public to follow the following protocols:

Always keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby and wear protective eyewear.

Never hold fireworks in your hand, relight duds, or discharge them under the influence.

Only allow trained professionals to handle fireworks.

If permitted to use fireworks, follow the guidelines provided by the Emergency Services Department, and keep fireworks away from buildings and people.

Do not use fireworks near petrol stations.

She said there are no specified times or dates when fireworks are permitted.

The following requirements must be adhered to before applications are considered by the fire safety section for the private discharge of fireworks on the premises:

The area where the fireworks are to be discharged must be at least 100m from buildings, roads and railway lines.

The area must be at least 20m from telephone lines, power lines, trees, and overhead obstructions.

An area extending 50m from the front and to the sides of the point at which the fireworks are to be discharged is to be clear of people.

The area should be kept clear for falling residue that is expected to drop from aerial fireworks must extend for at least 100m to the rear of the discharge point.

Radebe-Kgiba added flammable items and electricity at home safety tips:

Store flammable items and gas cylinders in safe places away from sources of ignition and fire, and ensure that gas cylinders are properly maintained.

Be careful when using alternative heating sources, and make sure that electrical wires are not exposed or bare.

Keep your Christmas tree away from fireplaces and candles, and ensure that it is secure to prevent tipping.

Electrical appliance check: before leaving for holiday trips, unplug all non-essential electrical appliances to reduce fire risks from electrical faults.

Applications for fireworks displays need to be submitted to the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, at Chief of Emergency Services, PO Box 440, Pretoria 0001, or Tshwane Emergency Services Station 1 (Bosman Street Fire Safety Section, corner Bosman and Minnaar Street, Pretoria) as an alternative.

If there is a fire hazard on the premises, call emergency services department at 012 3106200/6300/6400 during office hours (08:00 to 16:00).

In case of life-threatening emergencies, the emergency services department can be contacted via 107 and Gauteng ambulance services at 10177 (landline) or 112 (mobile phone). All numbers are toll-free.

Radebe-Kgiba said that to report animals in distress or cruelty to animals, contact the Waltloo SPCA on 083 453 3863 or Centurion SPCA on 082 807 5671.

When reporting an emergency, please remain calm, speak clearly, and give the correct address and contact number to allow the operator to phone you back.

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