Fireworks explosions light up the sky above Nelson Mandela Bridge. Picture: Halden Krog/Gallo Images With New Year’s Eve just two days away, South Africans have been warned to take precautions when using fireworks to ring in 2026. South Africans are expected to welcome the new year at midnight on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, characterised by celebrations.
While fireworks are a traditional way to usher in the New Year, they can also cause distress and injuries to animals, often when fireworks are fired at them. Fireworks cause extreme stress, fear, and potential injury or death in pets, wildlife, and livestock due to loud, unpredictable noises and bright flashes, leading to panic, escape, and severe trauma Animals’ sensitive hearing amplifies the terrifying sounds, causing them to flee, get lost, run into traffic, or suffer panic attacks, while birds abandon nests, and even wild animals can die from fright. The City of Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) said it is taking a firm stance against the sale and use of fireworks for New Year celebrations.
“While fireworks are allowed under certain regulations, the city is reminding residents and businesses to follow the rules.” The city said businesses selling fireworks must obtain certification from SAPS Explosives and from Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Services subsection Codes, commonly known as the Fire Safety section. “Fireworks may not be set off in public spaces, including parks, restaurants, and shopping malls. It is unlawful to point fireworks at another person, animals, buildings, or vehicles.” The City of Ekurhuleni said businesses selling fireworks without certification will be fined R2 500, while individuals setting off fireworks illegally will receive a R1 000 spot fine.
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