Johannesburg - The City of Joburg has urged residents who stock up on fireworks to be careful when using them on Wednesday night.
“There are by-laws that govern the use of fireworks. They are largely illegal except for certain religious festivals and certain public holidays,” said council spokesman Virgil James.
On New Year’s Eve, fireworks would be allowed between 11pm and 1am and on January 1 from 7pm to 10pm.
James said it was important for people who were going to be using fireworks to be considerate of neighbours and animals.
“People should also make sure they buy their fireworks from a reputable dealer. They can malfunction if bought on the street and can injure people,” he said.
If people had complaints about the use of fireworks after New Year’s Day, they could call the council and an inspector would come and investigate, or confiscate fireworks if necessary.
People should read the instructions provided with each firework; never throw lit crackers; always stand well back; never return to a cracker once it has been lit, because it may go off in one’s face; give fireworks plenty of room to explode; light crackers in an open space; don’t endanger other members of the public.
SPCA inspector Lily Motsemme said people who were worried about their pets could put them in rooms and play soft music to distract them.
“They will still hear some of the louder crackers, but the softer ones they won’t hear,” she said.
Safety tips:
* Pick a site that is appropriate for lighting crackers.
* Clothes worn should be resistant to fire.
* Set up the display during daylight hours.
* Check the wind direction before starting the display.
* Pick up all the remains of the fireworks and keep them out of children’s reach.
The Star