As part of the operations during the festive season the SAPS and other law enforcement agencies will ensure that National Legislation is observed. The use of fireworks is an area of concern, especially at this time of year.
The public is reminded that fireworks in South Africa are controlled in terms of the Explosives Act, 1956 (Act No 26 of 1956) and in addition, the Metropolitan and local authority have issued a set of by-laws restricting the use and discharge of fireworks in certain areas.
Members of the community need to know that it is unlawful for any person to use or discharge any fireworks –
- Within 500 meters of any explosive magazine, explosive factory, petroleum depot or gasometer,
- In any building or any public thoroughfare,
- In any other public place or resort except with the prior written permission of the local authority.
No person shall use or discharge any explosive, firearm or similar device which emits impulsive sound, or allow it to be used or discharged, if it may cause a noise or nuisance except with the prior consent in writing from the local authority concerned and subject to such conditions as the local authority may deem necessary.
Any person who by any act or omission commits a breach of any of the regulations of this Act, shall be guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding R600 or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment. The explosives that were used to commit the offence with, may be confiscated, in which case the cost of disposal thereof shall be borne by the accused.
KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE DURING FIREWORK SEASON
(Information downloaded from the SPCA Website)
The SPCA and SAPS Garsfontein is opposed to the use of any fireworks which emit a loud noise due to the trauma and injuries they cause animals. Because animals are able to hear a wider range of sounds than humans can the sound from fireworks is at least five times louder to them. Their natural response is to try and escape the sound with sometimes tragic consequences.
The SPCA advises residents living in areas where fireworks will be released to adopt the following guidelines to protect their animals:-
- Ensure all animals have identification – sudden loud bangs can cause animals to run away and get lost. Remember their hearing is far more acute than ours – i.e. they can hear a grasshopper eating.
- If possible stay at home with them if you suspect fireworks will be used nearby;
- If you can’t be at home keep your pets inside and preferably in a room that is safe and secure;
- Try and mask any noise by drawing the curtains and playing calming music at a reasonable volume;
- Put familiar and comforting things around them such as toys baskets etc;
- Give your pets a nutritious and balanced meal at night – this is likely to make them more sleepy;
- Give them something to chew on – a chewy bone or catnip toys for cats;
- If you suspect your pet will react badly to fireworks then seek professional advice from your veterinarian who may prescribe a sedative to help them cope. These days there are also a number of effective homeopathic remedies available that may be bought across the counter at vet shops.
The Animals Protection Act clearly states that “it is illegal for any person to terrify any animal” yet despite the SPCA’s efforts to educate the public on the dangers and legalities of using fireworks and lobbying government for a total ban on the use of fireworks injuries and trauma to animals occurs each year during fireworks season.
The Firearms and Explosives Ordinance Act also makes it illegal for any child under the age of 16 to use or buy fireworks and it is also illegal to use or sell fireworks without an official permit except at an officially designated site. Yet despite this legislation fireworks are still sold in many corner cafés to anyone with money to buy and let off at home where they pose a potential danger. The act also prescribes the maximum size that may be handled by members of public.
Harming an animal with fireworks will result in prosecution and concerned members of the public are to please report any acts of alleged cruelty to the SPCA and SAPS.
