Summary:
- Police received and approved 2,900 requests from hotels, entertainment centers, places of worship, and other venues across the country for fireworks displays.
KAMPALA: The Uganda Police Force has issued detailed guidelines for fireworks displays ahead of New Year celebrations.
The guidelines, announced by Police Spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma, aim to ensure public safety and proper regulation of the events.
Key Guidelines for Fireworks Displays
Fireworks Specifications: Fireworks materials used must not exceed 1.5mm in caliber, and each display is limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes from the first blast.
Supervision: Counter-Terrorism (CT) police personnel will escort the fireworks materials and supervise the displays alongside District Police Commanders (DPCs) to ensure security and adherence to safety measures.
Handling: Any unused fireworks must only be handled by individuals holding an explosives blaster license (fireworks license).
Venue Inspections: Officials from the Counter-Terrorism Police and DPCs will conduct prior inspections of venues to assess their suitability for hosting fireworks displays.
Kituuma emphasized the importance of informing the public about the displays. Organizers are required to: Advertise the events through electronic and print media, particularly on local FM radio stations and in newspapers and Ensure that advertisements in newspapers are prominent and placed on pages 1, 2, 3, or 4.
“Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in immediate termination of the display and potential additional penalties”. He said.
He also warned against the burning tires during celebrations and Firing shots into the air by individuals with firearms.
Eight licensed companies have been authorized to conduct fireworks displays this year. These include: Tomil Fireworks Ltd, Quality Lighting (U) Ltd, Fireworks 7000 Ltd, Light Africa Ltd, Goshen Africa Ltd, Extreme Events Services Ltd, Sky Frames (U) Ltd and FESCO Ltd.
Police received and approved 2,900 requests from hotels, entertainment centers, places of worship, and other venues across the country for fireworks displays.
“No unapproved events will be allowed”. Kituuma said.
Kituuma outlined additional safety requirements for host venues. The requirements include, Collaboration with district security teams to ensure secure environments, Compliance with safety standards, including emergency exits, assembly points, and firefighting equipment and Avoidance of overcrowding and prohibition of flammable materials at public gatherings.
Churches hosting night prayers were urged to co-plan with district security committees to guarantee the safety of their congregations.
Kituuma assured the public that police personnel are on high alert to detect and prevent potential threats during the celebrations.
“We urge the public to cooperate with security forces in ensuring safe neighborhoods. In case of emergencies or incidents requiring police response, please contact us through the following emergency lines,” he stated.
