The Drakenstein Municipality reminded residents that the setting off of fireworks remains banned in Drakenstein municipal areas.
According to a press release issued by the municipality, a ban on the discharging of fireworks, was approved in 2020 by the Drakenstein Municipal Council, with the exclusion of pre-approved events.
Municipal spokesperson Riana Geldenhuys said: “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.”
The annual celebration of Guy Fawkes on Tuesday November 5, is synonymous with setting off fireworks and warns the municipality residents of Paarl, Wellington, Mbekweni, Gouda, Hermon, Saron and Simondium are not permitted to participate in setting off fireworks.
The municipality underlines the danger these fireworks pose to people and animals.
“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,” said the municipality.
The public should note that 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.
People found in contravention of the provisions of this by-law can be convicted, and fined up to R1 000 or six months imprisonment.
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.
Call the municipality’s Law Enforcement services (operational all hours) at 021 807 8508 to report the illegal selling and firing of fireworks.
The Animal Welfare Society of SA warns of the possibility of animals frightened by fireworks running away and urges pet owners to ensure their pets are equipped with adequate identification.
They warned the public that harming pets or animals with fireworks will result in people facing prosecution. Pet owners residing in areas designated for fireworks are encouraged to stay home with pets, keep them indoors with comfort toys or items, try to mask the noise with calming music, and feeding them a meal at night that will make them sleepy.
The Animal Welfare Society of SA asks the public to report any acts of alleged animal cruelty to them at 021 692 2626 or 082 601 1761.
