RESIDENTS are getting ready to light the sky in celebration of Diwali and New Year’s Eve, but eThekwini Municipality has laid down strict guidelines on when fireworks can legally be lit and warned that anyone caught contravening the guidelines will face a R2500 fine.

Also read: Bluff Ratepayers and Residents Association push to ban fireworks

Fireworks are legally only allowed to be lit during the following times:

• Diwali: October 20 from 19:00 to 22:00
• New Year’s Eve: December 31 from 23:45-00:15

These times are regulated by the eThekwini Municipality fireworks by-laws which aim to optimise animal welfare and community safety while allowing for festive activities to take place.

As set out in the by-laws:

• Low-risk fireworks like fountains, lawn lights and sparklers are permissible to use at home.
• High-noise fireworks like air bombs, supersonic bangs, sound shells, fountain whistles and screeches are strictly forbidden.
• Children below 16-years-old should be accompanied by an adult while using fireworks.
• Fireworks should not be lit close to sensitive areas like hospitals, clinics, old-age facilities and petrol stations.
• Fireworks should not be fired on any public road or private property without the permission of the owner/occupier.
• Fireworks should not be aimed at human beings, animals, homes or vehicles.
• Fireworks cannot be used in animal cages or in a way that will cause them distress or jeopardise their lives.

Senior Superintendent Parboo Sewpersad, Durban Metro Police spokesperson, appealed to citizens to exercise extra vigilance to keep pets safe during the festive season.

“Pet owners must ensure animals are wearing collars with identification tags that have a home address and phone number. We urge residents to report any nuisances and to ensure they obtain reference numbers,” said Sewpersad.

Residents can report firework offences or related incidents on 031 361 0000.

As the festive season is about to start, the municipality is reminding everyone that safe use of fireworks not only ensures a safer celebration but shows respect for neighbours, the vulnerable and animals.

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