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November signals the start of end-of-the-year festivities. With Guy Fawkes (Thursday, 5 November) and Diwali celebrations (Friday, 6 November to Tuesday, 10 November) around the corner, the Cape Town skyline is expected to be lit with a kaleidoscope of fireworks.
Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean residents have carte blanche to set off fireworks willy-nilly. The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) has already received complaints about the sale and discharge of fireworks.
“The increase is disappointing, but not entirely surprising,” commented Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith. “While many people have come to understand and support efforts to snuff out the illegal use of fireworks, there are still pockets of resistance in the weeks leading up to Guy Fawkes and Diwali, and then also around New Year’s.”
Hotspot areas include Manenberg, Eastridge, Beacon Valley, Atlantis, Heideveld, Hanover Park, Belhar and Bonteheuwel.
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Uptick of complaints
The City has also noticed a worrying trend. In the first three weeks of October, about 13 complaints about illegal sales and at least 49 about the illegal discharge of fireworks were reported.
According to the National Explosives Act and the Community Fire Safety By-Law, anyone who wants to host a public fireworks display must apply for a permit. Fireworks display applications must be sent to the South African Police Service via email at capetown.explosives.cmrd@saps.gov.za.
Fun fact: The Walt Disney Company is one of the world's largest fireworks consumers, spending about $50 million annually on theme park shows.
Applicants must ensure there are no fire hazards in the immediate surroundings. Residents and businesses in the area must also give permission. Strict conditions must be adhered to before and during the fireworks display.
Keep your fur babies indoors
Besides the noise, Alderman JP Smith added that pets and communities are easily triggered.
The SPCA advises pet owners to create a safe, secure place inside your home, away from windows or doors. Close curtains or blinds. Turn on the TV or a radio to mask outside sounds. Feed them earlier and keep them inside.
And don’t forget there are no designated fireworks sites for Guy Fawkes, Diwali and New Year’s Eve. Those who don’t abide by the bylaw can expect to pay a fine of R300 or more.
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