MIDVAAL – While many residents are counting down the days to New Year’s Eve, some of us are once again on the dreaded December graveyard shift — keeping an eye on what matters while the rest of Midvaal prepares to celebrate.

With New Year’s Eve just a few days away, Midvaal councillor Salome Janse van Rensburg of Risiville has urged residents to familiarise themselves with the municipality’s Fire Safety Bylaws, particularly those regulating the use of fireworks.

According to the Midvaal Local Municipality’s Fire Safety Bylaws, the use of fireworks is strictly prohibited in several circumstances. Fireworks may not be used within 500 metres of an explosives factory, explosives storage facility, petrol depot or petrol station. They are also banned inside buildings, on agricultural holdings, at public places, schools, old age homes, hospitals and in all residential areas.

The bylaws further prohibit the lighting or ignition of fireworks in any place where animals are present, highlighting concerns around animal welfare and safety.

Fireworks are only permitted on specific dates and within strict timeframes, unless special authorisation has been granted by the municipality. These dates include:

• New Year’s Eve: 21:00 to 03:00
• New Year’s Day: 19:00 to 24:00
• Diwali, Chinese New Year, Hindu New Year, Lag B’Omer, Guy Fawkes Day, Human Rights Day, Freedom Day, Christmas Eve and the Day of Goodwill: 19:00 to 24:00

Outside of these times and dates, the use of fireworks is not allowed.

Parents and guardians are also reminded that minors may not use fireworks in contravention of these rules and must be properly supervised at all times.

The bylaws further state that fireworks displays are prohibited unless formally authorised by the municipality. Any authorised display must also receive approval from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Chief Inspector of Explosives. Such displays must be supervised by a qualified pyrotechnist, with the South African Police Service and emergency services in attendance.

In addition, a safety zone with a minimum radius of 50 metres must be clearly demarcated, access to the launch area strictly controlled, and the public notified at least 30 days in advance of the event.

Councillor Janse van Rensburg said the reminder is intended to promote safety, reduce noise-related distress and prevent unnecessary harm to people, animals and property as the year draws to a close.

Residents are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and to report any illegal use of fireworks to the relevant municipal authorities.