The Uganda Police Force has released important guidelines for fireworks displays in preparation for the upcoming New Year’s celebrations.
A total of eight companies have been licensed to display fireworks. They include: Tomil Fireworks Ltd, Quality Lighting (U) Ltd, Fireworks 7000 Ltd, Light Africa Ltd, Goshen Africa Ltd, Extremes Events Services Ltd, Sky Frames (U) Ltd, and FESCO Ltd.
The police spokesperson, Rusoke Kituuma, announced that numerous requests for permission to set off fireworks have been received from hotels, entertainment venues, and places of worship to ring in the New Year, with a total of 2,900 applications approved nationwide.
He emphasized that those planning to host fireworks displays must promote their events through both electronic and print media, particularly local FM radio stations and newspapers.
Advertisements should be prominently placed on the first four pages of the newspapers and must be large enough to catch the eye. Additionally, the fireworks used must not exceed a caliber of 1.5mm.
The duration of each fireworks display is limited to just five minutes from the initial blast. Kituuma highlighted that Counter Terrorism police personnel will accompany the fireworks materials and oversee the displays in collaboration with local District Police Commanders (DPCs) to ensure public safety and security during the events.
He also pointed out that any unused fireworks materials must be managed by a licensed explosives blaster, and inspections by Counter Terrorism Police and DPCs will be conducted beforehand to confirm the venue’s suitability for the display.
Kituuma made it clear that DPCs have the authority to halt any display if the guidelines are not strictly followed. Non-compliance will result in immediate termination of the display, along with any other necessary actions.
He urged the community to avoid burning tires as we usher in the New Year and warned those with firearms to refrain from shooting into the air during the celebrations.
Kituuma emphasized that no music shows or entertainment events would be permitted without prior approval from the Inspector General of Police.
“Organizers of events must jointly plan for the security of their events with the district security, other regulatory authorities, and stakeholders. Host venues must meet safety requirements set by the police and other regulatory authorities such as having emergency exits, assembly points, and emergency firefighting equipment,” he added.
He said it is imperative that venues adhere strictly to their capacity limits, stressing that overcrowding is not only discouraged but outright prohibited, especially when it comes to public gatherings where flammable materials are involved.
Kituuma emphasized that additional guidelines will be provided by local police commanders, tailored to their assessment of specific venues and events.
Prayer sessions
Authorities have also observed that prayer gatherings are drawing significant crowds and may extend for longer durations, including overnight sessions.
They urged organizers to collaborate closely with local security committees to guarantee the safety and security of all attendees.
The police have emphasized that their personnel are on heightened alert to identify criminal activity and prevent any potential risks. “We equally urge the population to team up with security forces in ensuring safe neighborhoods,” he added.
He emphasized that in the event of any emergencies, the public can reach out by dialing 999 from anywhere in the country. For police-related incidents, there’s also a WhatsApp line available at 0779 999 999. Additionally, for traffic emergencies, you can call the toll-free number 0800199099, and for fire emergencies, the toll-free line is 0800121222. Other important contacts include 0800199699, 0776999136, 0707600773, and 0714667743, which connect you to the police headquarters operations room.
