Thumbs up for big bangs ban
WITH Halloween on Thursday, October 31 and Diwali on Sunday, 3 November and with both events synonymous with fireworks, Ethekwini Municipality warns fireworks users that big bangs are banned.
On Diwali fireworks would be permitted from noon to midnight. If fireworks are let off on any other day it has to comply with noise restrictions of a 10pm deadline.
“Fireworks can be dangerous if incorrectly and irresponsibly used and without adult supervision could cause serious injury in the form of loss of limbs, burns and eye injuries. It can cause great trauma to animals,” said municipal spokesman, Thabo Mofokeng.
Amanzimtoti SPCA manager, Tracey Girling welcomed a ban on the big bangs, but would prefer no fireworks being used. “Many people have come into our offices to buy calming tablets for their pets and some have boarded their dogs with us for the duration of the festival,” said Tracey.
She advised pet owners to keep their animals inside, with the radio or television playing to mute the sounds of the fireworks, to keep them calm.
“I hope Metro Police and the municipality enforce the bylaws by patrolling the area.”
Safety tips for the use of fireworks:
* Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks and always have an adult supervising.
* Sparkles burn at high temperatures and when immersed in water, do not extinguish.
* Never place any body part directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up immediately to a safe distance after igniting the fuse.
* Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks if they have not ignited fully.
* Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
* Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
* Allow fireworks to complete their burning – douse the spent devices with plenty of water before discarding to prevent a trash or rubbish fire. Do not detonate fireworks while aiming at a person or animal, as serious harm can be done which can result in a fatality
* Ensure that animals are cared for and in this regard, please call Toti SPCA on 031-904-2424 or your nearest veterinarian for advice.
Emergency numbers to keep on hand, Metro Police 031-361-0000 and SAPS 10111.
