It is illegal to launch fireworks in the Kouga region.
This is the message from Executive Mayor, Daphne Kettledas, to the municipal area’s residents. Those breaking the law by launching fireworks or burning tyres can be reported to the municipality’s emergency number on 042 291 0250 or the nearest police station, Kettledas says. She thus asks people in Kouga to take hands with law enforcement authorities to help keep Guy Fawkes crime-free and safe for everyone this year.
Kettledas says Guy Fawkes, marked on 5 November, is increasingly associated with activities that pose a danger to people and animals. She calls on people to refrain from setting off fireworks as it poses a fire hazard and traumatises pets to an extent that they can injure themselves.
But a more dangerous Guy Fawkes tradition is the swinging and burning of tyres, Kettledas maintains. “Tyres are made of toxic compounds. “When you burn a tyre, poisonous gases are released into the air and inhaled by those in the vicinity.
“Babies, children, the elderly, asthmatics and immune-suppressed individuals are vulnerable to these pollutants. This includes people with TB or HIV/Aids. Burning tyres are also a serious fire risk and cause significant damage to our roads and sidewalks,” she adds,
Guy Fawkes is a British tradition which dates back to 1605 when a plot aimed at toppling the Protestant king of England in favour of the Catholics was uncovered. Known as the “Gunpowder Plot”, the plan was to topple the government by blowing up the House of Lords, where Parliament would have gathered on the day.
Guy Fawkes was the name of one of the conspirators who was tried and put to death for his involvement in the failed plot.
In addition as the festive season approaches people are reminded that the setting off of fireworks on New Year’s Eve is also illegal in Kouga and residents can report those that break the law.
(Edited by St Francis Chronicle)
St Francis Chronicle 