Summary:

• Police authorized 1907 fireworks sites for New Year displays, with licensed contractors following strict guidelines, including safety assessments, prohibition of remote ignition, and ensuring public safety measures.

The police have authorized a total of 1907 locations for the New Year fireworks display, a customary practice. The displays encompass various elements, including a series of firecrackers, close-proximity fireworks, and special events pyrotechnics.

In an official statement, the police emphasized that only contractors licensed under the Explosive Act are permitted to execute fireworks displays in accordance with standard regulations. The approved contractors for the night of December 31, 2023, to January 1, 2024, include M/S Sky Flames [U] Ltd, M/S Quality Lighting [U] Ltd, M/S Extremes Events [U] Ltd, M/S Tomil Fireworks [U] Limited, M/S Goshen Africa [U] Ltd, Fesco Ltd, Light Africa Uganda Ltd, and Fire Works 7000.

The outlined guidelines stipulate the following:

Police:

• Shall assess and approve the proposed locations for fireworks discharge sites.
• Will offer supervision and guidance to fireworks operators before, during, and after the display to ensure the launch area’s safety.
• Retain the discretion to suspend or terminate displays due to unsafe conditions, including adverse weather.
• Mandate that fireworks contractors conduct onsite safety assessments.
• Require fireworks operators to supply 10 tagged and functioning fire extinguishers.
• Demand the provision of fireworks tools, equipment, and qualified personnel for setup, firing, and thorough clearing of the display area post-event.
• Specify methods for interrupting firing in case of unforeseen dangers during setup.
• Prohibit remote ignition systems not under the direct control of the onsite operator.
• Impose a minimum diameter of 3 inches for aerial displays.
• Prohibit spectators and parking in the display site.
• Require structures within the display site to remain unoccupied during the event.
• Allow a limited number of trees and shrubs, provided they do not pose safety hazards.
• Mandate aerial fireworks for displays.
• Insist on keeping fireworks materials dry and away from bad weather.
• Forbid smoking, matches, lighters, and open flames within 50 feet of fireworks material.
• Prohibit individuals under the influence of substances affecting judgment, mobility, or stability.
• Ban cell phones and radio frequency devices within the immediate discharge area.
• Enforce the use of protective equipment during setup.
• Verify that mortars and racks meet approved standards for safety.
• Ensure neighborhood awareness through media and local authorities.
• Verify the availability of rescue and emergency medical services.
• Maintain crowd control using barriers and monitors.
• Disable electric firing switches and disconnect cables after the display.
• Conduct a search of the display and fallout areas after at least 15 minutes.
• Follow proper marking and warnings for unexpected shells.
• Ensure accountability, proper handling, repackaging, and securing of unused line products by counter-terrorism personnel.