AS Trinidad and Tobago get ready to usher in the new year, the police are warning all citizens to refrain from the improper, unlawful, or unsafe use of fireworks in contravention of the legislation governing the use of these products.
T&T recently implemented new, stricter fireworks regulations requiring permits for use, setting specific hours and banning fireworks near sensitive areas like hospitals, zoos, and airports.
In addition, the legislation makes violations ticketable offences, with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) warning that the legislation is now in force.
“The TTPS urges all citizens to refrain from the improper, unlawful, or unsafe use of fireworks in contravention of the Act and its accompanying regulations. The rules have changed – our responsibility must change too.
“The irresponsible discharge of fireworks endangers lives and property, creates public alarm, and disrupts communities—particularly impacting children, senior citizens, vulnerable persons, and animals, including household pets,” the TTPS said in a statement.
It furter advised that individuals found in breach of the law “will be subject to firm and decisive action” and that while officers will issue warnings where appropriate, members of the public are reminded that the issuance of a warning does not preclude prosecution.
“Officers of the TTPS will maintain heightened, intelligence-led, and targeted patrols to ensure public safety and compliance with the law. Citizens are also reminded that all offences detected or reported will be investigated and may lead to prosecution,,” the TTPS added.
As a result of the new legislation and regulations, fireworks may only be discharged with a permit issued by the Commissioner of Police, except on public holidays between 8 pm and 9 pm, and on December 31 between 11.30 pm and 12.30 am January 1.
Attorney General John Jeremie, who had piloted the legislation in Parliament, said studies by the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) had found that while creating colourful light displays for people to enjoy, fireworks also create destructive blast waves that harm the health of humans, animals and the environment. (CMC)
