Facebook readers noisy on subject of fireworks

THE setting off of fireworks has been a controversial topic in many communities for many years.

Some people see it as a tradition to set off fireworks on holidays such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve, while others disapprove of the action since it is a violation of the Explosives Act No 15 of 2003 – it endangers lives and properties and it also disrupts the routine of some people.

Pet owners are especially critical of fireworks displays since they traumatise and even endanger the lives of cats and dogs.

Ndlambe Municipality is considering allowing a fireworks display at the West Beach pier in Port Alfred for five minutes at midnight on December 31, should anyone wish to apply.

Talk of the Town’s Facebook question was: How do you feel about fireworks, even just once a year?

Should there only be one location in Ndlambe where fireworks can be set off?

Respondents were fairly evenly split between being in favour of a controlled display and those who want fireworks banned outright:

Michaela Kemlo said: “This needs to be a controlled exercise. Without control, it will inevitably continue for longer than five minutes.

“As a volunteer at the NSRI, I do not think it is a wise idea to do it at the pier where water is involved.

“It is New Year’s eve which usually involves the consumption of alcohol. Our statistics increase every year with incidents occurring at that time of the year.”

Lana Blom said: “That will be great, yes. Definitely only designated people to handle fireworks and definitely only at one spot – West Beach is perfect.

“Those who don’t adhere to the rule must be fined an amount that will make them strongly reconsider doing it again!”

Angela Liesenberg believes that there is no need for fireworks at all.

Duke Von Danville said: “If everybody is made aware of the event [being] presented and controlled by certified explosive handlers, and the display will only be permitted in the designated area, then yes.

“All animal owners and lovers can make provision for their nervous pets.”

Heather Tyson supported Von Danville’s comment. But Lyndie Robinson Malan disagreed, saying she stays at home every New Year’s Eve to calm her dog down and that nothing works. She also said that it not only affected domestic animals, but wildlife as well.

Patrick Schreiber said: “If it was only a display of beautiful non-noisy [big bangs] fireworks, that would be ok, it’s the noise that terrifies the animals. Even if dogs and cats are locked up they still hear the noise.

“So my verdict is that fireworks have to be banned, and people who ignore this should [be] fined heavily. “This should also apply to people selling fireworks.”

Donne Wentzel stated that if there is one fireworks display venue in town, then they will be set off everywhere without control.

Dawn Hains said in agreement: “I think setting off fireworks is a waste of money. Ndlambe can do so much more for the needy during the festive season, than letting of fireworks. How will they ensure that only those that apply set off the fireworks?”

Belinda van Dyk said, “Nope. The people at the Krans and along the river bank cannot be controlled at that time of the year, now this is to be added, and more people will gather at a designated area [than] an area where the rough ocean meets the land and where accidents have happened in the past. Asking for major trouble.”

Gwynneth Strating Crothall stated, “Absolutely not – unless they can find some with no bangs.”

Allan Poultney feels, “Fireworks should be permanently banned in public areas for the sake of the animals and elderly folk. There are other ways to celebrate any occasion.”

Roy Smith declared, “At a cost, noiseless fireworks can be obtained. How good that would be in showing that we live in a progressive and responsible town. It would also gain more media coverage for this reason. There is absolutely no excuse for traumatising animals – pets or wildlife – simply for entertainment purposes. End of story.”