The Uganda Police Force is gearing up for New Year’s Eve celebrations with planned fireworks displays at various venues. Only licensed contractors under the Explosive Act, such as M/S Sky Flames Ltd, M/S Quality Lighting Ltd, and others, are permitted to conduct standard fireworks displays. The police have cleared a total of 1907 sites for these displays.
Territorial commanders are assigned the task of monitoring organizers to ensure fireworks are set off only during permitted times. They are also responsible for creating task teams to prevent disruptions caused by unauthorized fireworks. Additionally, commanders, in coordination with contractors, will review and approve proposed discharge sites, provide supervision during setup and discharge, and have the authority to suspend or terminate displays if deemed unsafe.
For the safety of the public, several measures are in place. Fireworks operators must conduct onsite safety assessments, provide fire extinguishers, tools, and equipment, and ensure qualified personnel are present to set up, fire the display, and clear the area of debris. Specific guidelines include interrupting firing in case of danger, prohibiting remote ignition systems, and setting up displays with a minimum diameter of 3 inches.
Strict safety measures also apply, such as keeping spectators and parking away from display sites, ensuring structures remain unoccupied, and addressing potential fire hazards posed by trees and shrubs. All fireworks must be aerial, kept dry, and away from adverse weather conditions. Smoking, open flames, and radio frequency devices are prohibited within 50 feet of fireworks material, and personnel under the influence of substances affecting judgment are not allowed.
Operators must wear appropriate protective equipment, use approved materials for mortars and racks, and inform the neighborhood through media and local authorities. Rescue and emergency medical services should be ready, and crowd control measures, including barriers and monitors, must be in place. Electric firing switches should be disabled, and after a 15-minute wait, a thorough search of the display and fallout areas must be conducted. Unused fireworks must be properly handled and secured by counter-terrorism personnel.
