Enforcement and emergency services primed for Guy Fawkes

01 November 2024

As Guy Fawkes draws near, the City warns the public to toe the line, both in terms of illegal fireworks, and the macabre traditions associated with the day and that remain prevalent in pockets of the metropole.

The Safety and Security Directorate will refocus its operational deployment in the lead up to, and on Guy Fawkes, focusing on areas that have proven to be hotspots over the past few years.

Fireworks-related incidents have shown a decline over the past few years. Last year too, the number of fireworks-related incidents recorded by the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre showed a 31% decline:

Enforcement and emergency services will however be on high alert for the incidents of assault, stoning of vehicles and mob attacks that remain synonymous with the day in parts of Cape Town.

‘We have seen very encouraging signs in recent years of a downturn in what passes for revelry around Guy Fawkes. 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. 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.

‘To pet owners – monitor your animals, and keep them indoors where possible, to minimise the risk of trauma from illegal fireworks. 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,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

A SUMMARY OF FIREWORKS DO’S & DON’TS

• There are no designated fireworks sites in Cape Town for Diwali, Guy Fawkes or New Year’s Eve
• Fireworks displays will only be allowed where the necessary permit has been applied for, and approved
• The law prohibits the illegal discharge of fireworks, selling fireworks to persons under 16, or allowing them to handle fireworks without adult supervision

Residents are requested to report any incident, suspicious behaviour or criminal activity by phoning the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone and 107 from a landline.

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office