If you have a furry family member, you will be happy to know that (hopefully) wont have to keep them indoors on the 5th November.
The Drakenstein Municipality has banned Guy Fawkes celebrations
The 5th of November, celebrated as Guy Fawkes Day in a number of countries, is traditionally linked to the use of fireworks. Drakenstein Municipality would like to remind the Drakenstein community that no one is allowed to discharge fireworks or cause fireworks to be discharged within the municipal boundaries. The Drakenstein Municipal Council approved a ban on the discharging of fireworks in the Drakenstein municipal area earlier this year, 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 cause environmental or infrastructural damage through fires.
Executive Mayor Conrad Poole said this move proved yet again that the Municipality cared about the safety of its residents. The Municipality’s Control of Fireworks does however make provision for the City Manager of Drakenstein Municipality – in collaboration with the Executive Mayor – to grant written permission to discharge fireworks, subjected to certain conditions, at special pre-approved events such as major sports events or cultural and religious festivals e.g. Diwali/Deepavali (Festival of Lights).
The South African Police Service (SAPS) and Drakenstein Municipality’s Bylaw Enforcement division will ensure that the Control of Fireworks Bylaw is upheld and will confiscate fireworks found illegally in anyone’s possession. Those who contravene the provisions of this bylaw will be fined.
In terms of Section 30 of the Explosives Act of 1956, the use or detonation of any fireworks in any building and public thoroughfare is liable to a R200 fine; selling fireworks to a child or anyone under the age of 16 is liable to a R300 fine; and allowing a child or person under the age of 16 to handle fireworks without adult supervision is liable to a R300 fine.
Drakenstein Municipality is further governed by Bylaw No 1/2002 in respect of the control of fireworks. Any person who contravenes the provisions of this bylaw shall be liable for a fine not exceeding R1 000, or imprisonment not exceeding six months.
The Municipality encourages members of the public to report anyone who illegally discharges or sells fireworks to its Reporting Hotline at 0800 555 337 or drakenstein@whistleblowing.co.za.
Source: Drakenstein Municipality Facebook Page