 | Fireworks still banned in Drakenstein
03 November 2023 | Press Releases |
3 November 2023
On the eve of Guy Fawkes Day, celebrated annually on 5 November, Drakenstein Municipality would like to remind its residents that not only it is illegal to set off fireworks in the municipal area (covering Paarl, Wellington, Mbekweni, Gouda, Hermon, Saron and Simondium), but it is 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 from residents, animal welfare organisations, and the business sector for the Municipality to review its position in terms of a ban on the use of fireworks.
The Municipality took into consideration the risk of physical harm, acute injuries or distress to children, senior citizens and animals, as well as risks to the environment and business sector. Errant fireworks could not only cause serious injuries or worse, but could 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 as a result were injured.
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 to a fine. 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 is liable on conviction to a fine.
Any person who contravenes the provisions of this bylaw is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding R1 000, or imprisonment not exceeding six months.
The Municipality’s Law Enforcement division, together with the South African Police Service (SAPS), will continue to conduct inspections and seize illegal fireworks during this time, as well as over the upcoming festive season. Last week, a large number of illegal fireworks were confiscated at a shop in Wellington.
Residents can report the illegal selling and firing of fireworks to Law Enforcement at 021 807 8508 (all hours).
[END]
Issued by: Communication and Marketing, Drakenstein Municipality
