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WITH Guy Fawkes (November 5) and Diwali (November 7) just around the corner, the Hillcrest SAPS warned residents to be cautious when using fireworks during the festivities.
Hillcrest Communications officer Captain Linzi Smith said: “Fireworks can really hurt a person when handled negligently, especially around children and pets,” she said.
Smith said that children and pets are very fragile and she advised parents to be careful with fireworks around them.
“In order to avoid any injuries, parents shouldn’t let children near fireworks without adult supervision and they should take their pets to a safe place where they won’t be frightened by the fireworks,” advised the captain.
FIREWORK SAFETY TIPS FOR RESIDENTS
• Plan your fireworks display to make it safe and enjoyable for everyone.
• Store fireworks in a metal box.
• Children should always have an adult to supervise fireworks festivities, especially with sparklers.
• Always back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting the fireworks.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire and douse used fireworks before discarding them.
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in a metal or glass container.
• Never try to re-light or pick-up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never place a part of your body directly over a firework device when lighting.
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
In conclusion, the communications officer said the Hillcrest SAPS would like to wish their colleagues and community members a safe and Happy Guy Fawkes as well as a Happy Diwali.
“We wish them a very happy celebration and they shouldn’t forget to be safe, take care of their children, and they should take their pets to a safe place where they won’t be affected by the festivities,” said Smith.
