A metro police spokesperson, Senior Superintendent Parboo Sewpersad, has stated clearly in a statement that fireworks should and must be set off only from sunset to midnight on Diwali which comes up on Thursday. He also made it clear that those who violate this eThekwini Municipality’s by-laws will have to pay a fine of R2,500.

He also urged Pet owners to make sure their animals are worn collars which consist of an identification tag with a telephone number and house address. Residents should also report any sort of nuisance, making sure they obtain reference numbers.

According to the city’s by-laws:

– Low-hazard fireworks such as fountains, lawn lights and sparklers can be lit in private homes.

– Fireworks such as air bombs, supersonic bangs, sound shells, fountain whistles and screeches are prohibited.

– Children under the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult when setting off fireworks.

– Fireworks should not be set off near hospitals, clinics, old age/nursing homes and petrol stations.

– No person shall set off fireworks on any public road, and at any residence, or private dwelling without the knowledge and consent of the occupant or owner of the property.

– It is unlawful to point or direct fireworks at a person, animal, building or motor vehicle.

– No person shall light or set off fireworks in any place where animals are kept, or cause stress to or endanger the life of any animal.