The do’s and don’ts of Guy Fawkes, Diwali fireworks
“No one under the age of 16 is allowed to handle or use fireworks, except when they are under the supervision of an adult,” Radebe cautions.
JOHANNESBURG Emergency Management Services (EMS) has called on residents to comply with the city’s fireworks by-laws and exercise restraint when they celebrate Guy Fawkes Day and Diwali.
EMS spokesperson Nana Radebe says fireworks can only be set off between 7pm and 10pm on both Guy Fawkes Day and Diwali. Anyone who does not abide by the by-law faces a fine of R1 500. Radebe says residents also need to be mindful of children and pets.
“No one under the age of 16 is allowed to handle or use fireworks, except when they are under the supervision of an adult,” Radebe cautions.
“You cannot use fireworks within 500m of any explosives factory, explosives storage place, petrol depot, petrol station, inside any building and at any public place, including schools, old age homes and hospitals.”
Residents are urged to pick a site appropriate for lighting fireworks, keep animals indoors, with the curtains drawn and the TV or radio switched on to distract them. They need to check the wind direction before starting the display, keep the fireworks out of children’s reach and pick up all the remains of the fireworks after the display.
Fireworks should only be handled by adults. Children should watch the display from a distance. Usually, to stage a fireworks display, residents need written permission from the Fireworks Working Committee or chief fire officer in their region.
But permission is not needed for days of cultural and religious celebrations, including Diwali, Chinese New Year, Human Rights Day, Guy Fawkes Day, Christmas Eve and the Day of Goodwill. But you must abide by the stipulated times mentioned above.
In case of an emergency, residents are urged to call 011 375 5911 or 10111.
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