GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to fireworks and related devices during the festive season, citing the high risk of veld fires, public safety concerns and the wellbeing of people, pets and wildlife.
Residents and visitors are reminded that the possession or discharge of fireworks, flares and similar items is strictly prohibited within the municipal area, with enforcement measures firmly in place. No fireworks area has been designated in George.
If someone is caught discharging any fireworks, a flare, or lighting a Chinese lantern, an immediate fine of R1000 is applicable, as well as a potential charge of arson.
According to the Bylaw on Community Safety, Section 58(13), discharging of fireworks outside a designated Fireworks Area is prohibited.
Confiscation notices
Law Enforcement Services, together with other role players, conduct continuous inspections at shops in all areas and confiscation notices and fines will be issued to non-compliant shops.
Confiscated fireworks will be handed over to the SAPD explosives unit for disposal.
Marine flares
Setting off marine rocket flares for fun is dangerous and irresponsible. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is compelled to log and investigate every incident in case it is a real emergency, which takes up their time and valuable resources. More seriously, it could detract from genuine flare sightings. It is also extremely dangerous for those setting off the flares, which could be out of date. Marine guidance notes explain that all old flares need to be disposed of correctly.
Rocket flares degrade over time, and there have been cases where the rocket propellant separates from the parachute, resulting in an uncontrolled flare which descends and could hit the person who has fired it off.
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.
Did you know?
- Bees become so disorientated that they don’t go back to their hives.
- Birds have panic attacks at night, causing mass deaths.
- Fish and other animals perish after ingesting fireworks debris.
- Companion animals have anxiety and panic attacks.
- Fireworks can also trigger post-traumatic stress disorder in people.
An appeal is made to the public to report the illegal trade in fireworks on 044 801 6350 or after hours on 044 801 6300.
Fire emergencies: 044 801 6311
Toll free disaster number: 087 152 9999
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