Emergency services wish everyone safe but responsible Territory Day ahead of July 1 celebrations
With Territory Day less than 24 hours away, emergency services are urging everyone to act responsibly. Read what they had to say.
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Emergency services have urged Territorians to celebrate Territory Day responsibly.
NT Fire and Emergency Services recommend the below precautions for to protect properties, communities and the environment:
- Cleaning leaves and debris from gutters
- Wetting down your lawn and garden beds
- Clearing flammable materials from around your home and sheds
- Set off your fireworks in a clear area away from flammable material and structures
- Ensuring used fireworks are completely cool before throwing them away
- Safely disposing of unused fireworks by returning them to licensed retailers or contacting NT WorkSafe
Authorities can issue on-the-spot fines if fireworks are used in a way that could damage property or endanger people or animals.
Fines will also apply for the possession of fireworks after midday on Wednesday.
Unused fireworks can be handed into NT WorkSafe offices or surrendered to remote police stations.
NT Fire and Rescue Services chief fire officer Stephen Sewell said emergency services would do the “best we can” to support the community.
“This is the busiest night for our firefighters, and we anticipate high demand on our services,” he said.
“Last year NTFRS responded to 241 incidents, including 151 wildfires.
“Many of these were bin fires caused by people placing hot, used fireworks in bins, so it is important to ensure your fireworks are fully extinguished before disposing of them.”
Dr Bhushan Joshi, an emergency specialist at the Royal Darwin Hospital and Palmerston Hospital, said he hoped people could have a “really fun and enjoyable day”, while also staying safe.
“Most of the injuries we see are actually bystanders, so be aware of the people around you,” he said.
“If injury does occur, remain calm, make sure the area is clear and safe, and only approach if the area is safe to do so.
“If it’s a burns injury, cool the injury for 20 minutes with running water, cover it with cling film if available and call for help.
“If we don’t see you, you’ve probably had a good cracker day.”
Bushfires NT executive director Jacqui Forrest said it was important residents on rural blocks were prepared.
“Our message for rural residents is to make sure they set off their crackers in clear area, away from long grass and vegetation, as well as structures,” she said.
“We hope people can enjoy tomorrow night safely.”
St John NT director of ambulance services Andrew Thomas said he hoped everyone would have a great Territory Day, and urged people to be responsible.
“If you are setting fireworks off, enjoy setting them off — but do it safely,” he said.
“Don’t hold them in your hands, make sure they’re safe on the ground, keep children away and avoid drinking and using the fireworks.”
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