Guy Fawkes and Diwali are approaching. The National Council of SPCAs calls for restraint, responsibility and consideration from all quarters.
Diwali is the Festival of Light and its beauty is inherent. Loud bangs form no part of it. Guy Fawkes has no relevance to South Africa and it is questioned why it is celebrated at all.
It has become increasingly evident that reckless individuals are using both events to use fireworks in a particularly anti-social manner. This includes ignoring any restrictions and causing damage to property and terrifying communities as well as animals.
The SPCA does not enforce the laws relating to the use of fireworks. Regulations, both local and national, are watertight. The Explosives Act is enforced by the SAPS to whom such infractions need to be reported. This Act covers sale of fireworks as well as issues relating to the discharge of fireworks in public places. Local by-laws, which vary, regulate the discharge of fireworks on private property. In some municipalities permits are required, while in other areas dispensation is granted for such events as Diwali, especially at specified time periods.
It is illegal to sell fireworks in the open.
Anyone with an animal is requested to be responsible and to ensure the animal’s safety and comfort. The hearing of animals is far more acute and sensitive than the hearing of a human. If a dog can hear a grasshopper eat, imagine what fireworks must sound like.
Stay with your pets. Keep them indoors. If an animal is sensitive by nature, then consult your veterinarian for advice. Do not give medication intended for humans to animals and above all, ensure animals are not in danger of harming themselves if they bolt – even indoors – or react when a firework is discharged in the area. Despite regulations and appeals for calm, this can still occur.
It is important to ensure, too, that animals have identification.
Illegal behaviour relating to fireworks needs to be reported to the South African Police Service, giving full details in that specific area.
On behalf of the SPCA movement in South Africa, we extend good wishes to those celebrating Diwali. and we trust this year the celebrations will be in accordance with the true spirit of the Festival of Light – beauty, light, love and above all, compassion
