Gay Fawkes is on Sunday – and although many of us might want to batten down the hatches it’s not going to go away. Here’s what West Coast residents need to know.
The Tourism Centre in Athens Road, Table View beachfront, is one of twelve designated sites for the discharging of fireworks. The site will be patrolled by City Law Enforcement and Metro Police officers and a fire inspector.
Take note:
· No person under the age of 16 is permitted to discharge fireworks.
· Only discharge fireworks bought at an accredited shop and follow the instructions on the package.
· Only discharge fireworks at the designated sites, out of range of any persons, structures or vehicles.
· Children must be supervised at all times when around fireworks.
· Do not light fireworks inside any type of container.
· Never discharge fireworks while under the influence of intoxicating substances.
· The Community Fire Safety By-law prohibits the use of Chinese lanterns.
· 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.
· 23:30 is the cut-off time on Guy Fawkes.
Road closures
The following roads in Table View will be closed: Marine Drive between Dolphin Beach Hotel and Marine Circle; Waves Edge will be closed off at Athens Road, Popham and Dunbar Streets.
According to the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith, the City is concerned about Guy Fawkes falling on a Sunday. “There could potentially be an increase in the number of complaints from the public about fireworks in their neighbourhoods, terrorised pets, and of course the blatant assault of innocent people by marauding gangs who derive great pleasure from targeting their victims with paint, eggs and even faeces.” He appeals to pet owners to keep their animals indoors as far as possible.
Members of the public with information relating to the illegal sale or use of fireworks should report this to the City’s Public Emergency Call Centre on 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or to the South African Police Service on 10111.
