People urged to respect city by-laws over Diwali

WHILE many families are preparing for Diwali celebrations this week, they are urged to exercise caution and adhere to the municipal by-laws.

Diwali, according to the municipality, is categorised as a religious and cultural day.

Metro police acting head Steve Middleton said: “Although the city respects the different religions and cultural practices in eThekwini, according to city by-laws, fireworks are to be used in a responsible and considerate manner with due respect for those celebrating the day and the welfare of animals”.

Official dates

The official dates for Diwali have been marked as Wednesday and Thursday.

According to Middleton, the period for the lighting of fireworks is from 11.45pm until 12.15am.

Phoenix Animal Care and Treatment Chatsworth co-founder Neerie Naidoo said pet owners must ensure that pets are kept indoors from as early as possible because fireworks were let off at varying times.

“Pet owners must ensure that pets are kept indoors. It is a good idea to play music loud enough to drown out the sound of the fireworks.

“Those opting to administer sedatives to their pets must also ensure that the pets stay indoors,” she said.

She advised people to keep emergency numbers close at hand.

“Residents need to ensure that pets are fitted with a collar. This needs to have an identification tag with their home address and telephone number, in case the pet strays,” she said.

The eThekwini Municipality has requested that people celebrating Diwali comply with the following rules:

Persons under the age of 16 must use fireworks under the supervision of an adult.

No person shall ignite, discharge or explode any fireworks on any public road, residence, or private dwelling without the knowledge and consent of the occupant or owner of the property.

It is unlawful for any person to point or direct a firework at any other person, animal, building or motor vehicle where such firework is in the process of exploding or detonating.

No person shall light or detonate fireworks in any place where animals are kept.

No person may terrify, cause stress or endanger the life of any animal with fireworks or by any other means.

Residents needing assistance on the day, or those wishing to report non-compliance, should contact the metro police at 031 361 0000.