Government is today reminding the public to exercise caution when using firecrackers and candles during Diwali celebrations.
The Ministry of Defence, National Security and Immigration permanent secretary Mr Jale Fotofili said that the public can only use firecrackers between the 8th of November and on the 14th of the same month.
“Everyone must adhered to the Legal Notice No. 131 of 2006 which says that all use and discharge of firecrackers shall be conducted between the hours of 5.00pm and 10.00pm except for Diwali Holiday where the time for discharge of firecrackers shall be from 5.00pm to 12 midnight,”Mr Wailker said.
He said it is illegal to sell firecrackers to persons under the age of 18 years and should be used under adult supervision.
Mr Fotofili said that various agencies including the Fiji Police Forces will monitor the sale and use of firecrackers around the country. This is to also ensure that merchants around the country don’t sell fireworks to those below the age of 18 years.
“We are serious about this because we do not want a repeat of past incidents and accidents which has resulted in a loss of live, “he said.
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