Fireworks

Fireworks

Thursday, 22nd December 2016

Victorians risk fines of up to $10,000 if they are caught possessing or using fireworks.

With the New Year fast approaching, WorkSafe is keen to remind everyone that fireworks are illegal as well as dangerous.

So far this year, almost one tonne of illegal fireworks have been confiscated or handed into WorkSafe and Victoria Police.

“Fireworks are banned in Victoria for good reason – they can injure or kill,’’ warned WorkSafe’s general manager of health and safety, Lisa Sturzenegger.

“And yet each year, people risk their own safety, that of their children and their neighbours by letting off fireworks,” she said.

“The fines are severe because the injuries they can cause are severe.”

A 34-year-old man from Tarneit died on January 1 after a commercial firework exploded in his face during a New Year’s Eve party.
Dozens of Victorians – including children - are injured every year during New Year festivities.

Only licensed pyrotechnicians are allowed to handle fireworks.

Ms Sturzenegger said people should put the safety of their family, friends and neighbours ahead of any plan to buy illegal fireworks.

“Families should be happily seeing in the start of a new year – not mourning a loved one or visiting a family member in hospital,’’ she said.

Anyone who wishes to dispose of fireworks can contact WorkSafe on 1800 136 089 to arrange for their collection.

Anyone who wishes to report the illegal sale of fireworks can phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

Source: Work Safe Victoria