Busy time for OSH Dangerous Goods and Explosives Team

Monday 2 November 1998

Guy Fawkes 1998 is proving fast-paced for the OSH Explosives and Dangerous Goods Inspectors, with retail issues rather than public complaints keeping them busy.

"Every firework coming into New Zealand must be approved by the Chief Inspector of Explosives and Dangerous Goods prior to going on sale and some shipments have arrived later than usual this year." OSH spokesperson Lisa-Marie Richan said.

"1998's fireworks went on sale last Tuesday and complaints from the public have been lower than in previous years," Ms Richan said.

"One complaint concerned an illegally packaged and imported batch of fireworks, and is currently under investigation by the Inspectorate."

"Retail outlets have strict rules governing the sale of fireworks to the public and they must be sold in approved packaging or under glass, and only to customers 14 years of age and over."

"Although sky rockets and fire crackers are no longer available by law, fireworks can still be very dangerous and must be handled with care. Instructions should be read carefully and kept away from naked flame."

"Fireworks are classed as explosives and are intended for Guy Fawkes celebrations only, hence sale is limited until November 5." Ms Richan said.

"Unwanted, illegally imported, or fireworks not approved for sale by OSH are destroyed by members of the Dangerous and Explosives Goods Inspectorate."

Basic Safety Rules When Handling Fireworks:

Some ways you can protect yourself are:

• Choose a safe place to let off your fireworks
• There must be plenty of open space
• Is it away from anything which could catch fire?
• Is there water available in an emergency
• store and carry your fireworks safely
• Keep them;
  • out of the reach of young children
  • in a box or bag (not in your pocket)
  • away from heat and flames
• Read the instructions on your fireworks before Guy Fawkes Night and read each one again before you light it.
• Light you fireworks at arm's length, then stand way back
• Keep clear of fireworks which have been lit, but haven't gone off.
• Have an adult with you to help
  • sometimes it's safer for an adult to light fireworks.
• Stand your fireworks in dirt, sand and on a firm, flat surface.

Some ways you can help to protect others are:

• Keep animals away from fireworks
• Remember that throwing fireworks can injure people and animals, and damage property.
• Look after young children
• Due regard must be given to adjoining properties

If things go wrong, remember what to do:

If clothes catch fire

STOP where you are. This helps to prevent the flames spreading.

DROP to the ground. Flames burn upwards, so if you drop to the ground it will help to prevent them reaching your face. Cross your arms over your face to keep the flames away.

ROLL over and over to put out the flames. If a coat, blanket or rug is nearby, wrap it around yourself and roll.