The Northern Territory (NT) Police and NT Fire and Emergency Service (NTFES), together with Bushfires NT and St John Ambulance, are urging all Territorians and visitors to celebrate Territory Day safely this year.
The NT Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) and Bushfires NT are gearing up for the day with increased firefighting resources and support across their respective emergency response areas. Incident Management Teams and extra call takers/dispatchers will be stood up to assist our Firefighters throughout the Territory.
On 1 July, fireworks can be purchased from licensed retailers between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM, and can only be used between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM. It's crucial to buy only what you can safely use within the allowed time frame. A list of licensed retailers can be found at https://worksafe.nt.gov.au/safety-and-prevention/fireworks/territory-day-approved-retailers.
Acting Chief Fire Officer Stephen Sewell AFSM emphasised, "We strongly encourage everyone to plan for a safe night, ensuring the well-being of yourself, your loved ones, and your pets. Clean out gutters, wet lawns, garden beds, remove rubbish and combustibles from around structures, ensure all fire breaks and mitigations are completed prior to the night".
"Even with the cold weather in the Central Desert, it's important not to become complacent with firework safety, especially as dry weather has been forecasted for the Top End. Fireworks can be very dangerous and can easily cause unintended fires and cause serious injuries."
"Only buy fireworks from licensed retailers, and make sure to read and follow the safety instructions on each one. Never hold fireworks in your hand, and always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case things get out of control. Avoid setting off fireworks near long grass, dry bush, structures, vehicles or people."
"Last year, NTFRS responded to over 90 fires linked to Territory Day celebrations during legal hours and over 100 outside of legal hours the next day. Many of these fires were bin fires caused by people placing hot, used fireworks in bins. Always ensure your fireworks are completely cool before disposing of them."
"This is the busiest night of the year for all our Firefighters, so let's work together to make it a safe one."
On-the-spot fines can be issued if fireworks are used in a manner that could damage property or harm people or animals. Fines will also be imposed for possession of fireworks after midday on Tuesday, 2 July 2024.
St John NT Regional Manager Ben Minchin said to celebrate Territory Day safely, responsibly and to be careful around fireworks.
"A good way to celebrate Territory Day is to attend one of the public fireworks displays, but if you but if you are going to let off fireworks, make sure you do it the safest way possible and ensure you look out for one another," Mr Minchin said.
"Remember our crews are here to help, but we would rather you handle fireworks safely and do the right thing than need our assistance."
Executive Director of Bushfires NT Collene Bremner said " Bushfires NT is as prepared as possible, with our Volunteer Brigades ready to support their local communities, but we also need cooperation from residents and visitors.
Make sure your family, pets, and property are ready for a safe and enjoyable Territory Day."
"We encourage the public to call 000 to report any fires or emergencies and to report illegal or suspicious activities to the NT Police on 131 444."
For updates, visit the NT Fire Incident Map and follow NTPFES, SecureNT, and Bushfires NT on Facebook.
If you have unused fireworks, you can contact NT WorkSafe at 1800 019 115 to arrange for safe disposal.
