The City of Cape Town has announced a strengthened approach to safety and security in anticipation of Guy Fawkes celebrations, with the Safety and Security Directorate set to increase operations in identified hotspots across the city. This proactive effort aims to address persistent issues associated with the occasion, from fireworks incidents to assault and mob attacks, which continue to be problematic in some areas of Cape Town.
Recent statistics show a positive trend, with fireworks-related incidents declining over recent years. Last year, the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded a significant 31% reduction in such incidents. This decrease is attributed to both heightened awareness and effective enforcement efforts by the City.
However, while the decline in incidents is encouraging, officials are keenly aware that risks remain. Enforcement and emergency services will be on high alert, prepared to respond to any disturbances that may occur. According to Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, the City has seen “very encouraging signs in recent years of a downturn in what passes for revelry around Guy Fawkes.” He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in maintaining this trend.
“I want to appeal to the public at large to help maintain that momentum by calling out bad behaviour, and reporting those who insist on partaking in these destructive behaviours,”
said Smith.
The City is also advising caution to residents and visitors, particularly motorists and parents. The approach to public safety on Guy Fawkes extends beyond controlling fireworks to ensuring road and community safety.
“Our staff will be on high alert, but we also caution motorists to be careful, and for parents to keep a close eye on their children,”
Smith added.
Additionally, pet owners are urged to take precautions for the wellbeing of their animals, who may be distressed by the noise and activity associated with fireworks displays.
“To pet owners – monitor your animals, and keep them indoors where possible, to minimise the risk of trauma from illegal fireworks,”
Smith advised.
A critical factor contributing to the City’s challenges in managing fireworks is the legal limitation on enforcing a comprehensive ban on fireworks. While local authorities can control illegal sales and discharges, a complete ban is beyond the City’s jurisdiction.
“A ban on fireworks is the best solution, but unfortunately that is outside of the City’s purview, but we will ensure that we play our part to curb it as best as possible,”
Smith noted.
Residents are reminded to follow specific guidelines regarding the use of fireworks, particularly since Cape Town has no officially designated fireworks areas for celebrations such as Diwali, Guy Fawkes, or New Year’s Eve.
Here is a summary of the most important dos and don’ts surrounding fireworks usage:
Designated Fireworks Sites: There are no designated areas for fireworks in Cape Town for Diwali, Guy Fawkes, or New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Permits for Displays: Only fireworks displays that have obtained the necessary permits will be allowed.
Legal Restrictions: It is illegal to discharge fireworks without authorization, sell them to persons under the age of 16, or permit minors to handle fireworks unsupervised.
The City urges residents to report any suspicious or illegal activity involving fireworks, as well as any criminal behaviour associated with the celebrations. For prompt response, individuals can contact the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre by dialing 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline.
With collective effort from residents, authorities hope to see continued reductions in incidents associated with Guy Fawkes, ensuring that celebrations remain safe and respectful for all.
