No fireworks allowed in George and surrounds

GEORGE NEWS - Due to the high fire risk, the setting off and possession of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia are not allowed in the George municipal area.

George has strict firework legislation and has no designated area for the set off of fire works.

Should someone be caught discharging a firework or a flare, or lighting a Chinese lantern, an immediate fine of R1 000 is applicable as well as a potential charge of arson.

Confiscation notices

Law Enforcement Services together with other role players would start with the compliance campaign by doing continuous inspections at shops in all areas.

Confiscation notices and fines will be issued to non-compliant shops and confiscated fireworks will be handed over to the police explosives unit for disposal.

Marine flares

Setting off marine rocket flares for fun is hugely dangerous and irresponsible. The NSRI is compelled to log and investigate every incident in case it is a real emergency. This of course takes up their time and valuable resources and, more seriously, could detract from genuine flare sightings.

It is also hugely dangerous for those setting off the flares, which, as they are quite costly, are also probably out of date.

Rocket flares degrade with time and there have been cases where flares were turned uncontrollable because the rocket propellant had separated from the parachute and the flare came back down, hitting the person who had fired it off.

Marine guidance notes explain that all old flares need to be disposed of correctly.

Enforcement

George Municipality will firmly enforce the applicable by-laws and law enforcement officials will be deployed at various areas and beaches throughout the season to attend to fireworks complaints.

This will hopefully assist in reducing the noise levels and allow people (and their pets) to plan for "noisy" periods, thus allowing for a quieter, safer environment for all concerned.

For some pets, especially dogs and cats with particularly noise-sensitive ears, the sound of fireworks can cause intense fear responses.

Some pets will go to extremes to hide, others get startled and run away, and general anxiety caused by unexpected loud sounds can have long-lasting effects on animals.