 | Fireworks remains banned in Drakenstein
04 November 2024 | Press Releases |
1 November 2024
With Guy Fawkes Day taking place on Tuesday, 5 November 2024, Drakenstein Municipality (covering Paarl, Wellington, Mbekweni, Gouda, Hermon, Saron and Simondium) wants to remind residents that it remains illegal to set off fireworks in the municipal area. It is also dangerous to both humans and animals.
In 2020, the Drakenstein Municipal Council approved a ban on the discharging of fireworks in the municipal area, with the exclusion of pre-approved events. This followed calls by residents, animal welfare organisations, and the business sector for the Municipality to review its position on banning the use of fireworks.
The Municipality took into consideration the risk of physical harm, acute injuries and distress to children, senior citizens and animals, as well as risks to the environment and business sector. Not only can errant fireworks cause serious injuries or worse, but they can also affect environmental or infrastructural damage through fires.
Animals are traumatised by the loud explosive sound that fireworks make. In previous years there were incidents where animals jumped through glass windows to escape the loud bangs and were injured as a result.
In terms of Section 30 of the Explosives Act of 1956, the use or detonation of any fireworks in any building or public thoroughfare is liable on conviction and can incur a fine. The same applies to selling fireworks to a child under the age of 16 and allowing a child under the age of 16 to handle fireworks without adult supervision.
Any person who contravenes the provisions of this bylaw is liable on conviction and can be fined up to R1 000 or imprisoned up to six months.
The Municipality's Law Enforcement division, together with the South African Police Service, will conduct inspections and seize illegal fireworks during this time, as well as over the upcoming festive season.
Residents can report the illegal selling and firing of fireworks to Law Enforcement at 021 807 8508 (all hours).
Audio Clips
Fireworks remains banned in Drakenstein - English
Fireworks remains banned in Drakenstein - Afrikaans
[END]
Issued by: Communication and Marketing, Drakenstein Municipality
