Don’t risk lives, injury, property damage or grass fires with illegal fireworks this New Year’s Eve, is the strong message from South Australia’s fire services, after dangerous incidents last year. 

The Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) and SA Country Fire Service (CFS) remind the public there is no excuse to risk using fireworks at home and that with South Australia currently in fire danger season, the private, unlicensed possession and use of fireworks is illegal.

MFS Chief Officer Michael Morgan says the risk of injury or property damage needs to be considered when planning New Year’s Eve gatherings.

“People using fireworks put themselves, their loved ones and the broader community at risk of serious injury, disfigurement – or even death. If caught, offenders also face significant penalties or civil damages.”

“Sparklers can be used only if there are no Total Fire Bans declared, but parents must always supervise children using them to prevent burns or accidental fires,” MFS Chief Officer Michael Morgan said. 

Warm, dry conditions are predicted across much of the state, bringing potential bushfire danger and fire bans (check the CFS website for more information). 

CFS Chief Officer Mark Jones says it only takes a small spark to light a large fire.

“Our volunteers are looking forward to a break and some time with their family and friends on New Year’s Eve, and all it takes is one irresponsible or illegal act to spoil that for everyone.”

“A person was recently prosecuted for using illegal fireworks in South Australia. If a fine of up to $5,000 is not enough to stop a person letting off fireworks, you would hope the reality of the fireworks starting a large bushfire that could destroy property and homes would be.”

South Australians are also reminded that ‘sky lanterns’ – a paper lantern that is set alight to make it float in the air – are banned from use in South Australia. Sky lanterns pose a high fire risk if they were to land on dry grass or become trapped under the eaves of a building.

For more information about obtaining licences and permits for the use of fireworks, visit the SafeWork SA website.