Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services wish all Territorians and visitors a safe and happy Territory Day tomorrow.

Deputy Commissioner Jamie Chalker said that Territory Day was a unique celebration and called for people to behave responsibly tomorrow night.

“If everyone acts responsibly we can avoid needless injuries or damage to property and get on with the business of celebrating the Territory,” he said.

“Fireworks should only be set off between 6pm and 11pm. People found setting crackers off outside these times, or in a dangerous manner, can be fined more than $1200.

“A lot of people like to go out to watch the Mindil Beach fireworks from their boats as well. With a large number of vessels on the water, it is essential that boats do not enter the exclusion zone surrounding the barge containing the fireworks for the public display, and use their navigation and anchor lights as well as carry all the necessary safety equipment.”

Water Police will be out conducting marine safety compliance checks to ensure we all enjoy the night in safety.

Last year NT Fire and Rescue Services responded to 139 fires started by fireworks. These were largely grass fires, but two structures were also affected.

District Officer Mark Spain reminded people to use common sense and follow the instructions provided on the product when setting off fireworks.

“Make sure you have a clear area of at least 10 metres diameter and a firm flat surface before setting off fireworks,” he said.

“Never set fireworks off near or below a tree, power lines or a building opening and most importantly never aim at people or animals. Wet down any firework debris with the hose or bucket of water that you of course have handy. Don’t let children under 12 handle fireworks and don’t give sparklers to children under five years of age.”

“It’s also very important that you don’t try to relight a firework that failed in the first instance.”

The Joint Emergency Services Communications Centre received more than 350 calls last year relating to fireworks complaints on Territory Day.

“Cracker night is one of the busiest nights of the year for the communications centre,” Mr Chalker said.

Between 6:00am on 1July to 6:00am on 2 July 2015, calls received in the Joint Emergency Services Communications Centre included:

• 89 calls reporting disturbances involving fireworks
• Two structure fires
• Two non-structure fires (rubber flooring and a letter box)
• Four vehicle fires
• Eight bin fires
• 208 grass fires

(Note: several calls may be received for the same incident)

Possession of unused fireworks becomes an offence after 12pm on Saturday 2 July.

To surrender unused fireworks, please contact NT WorkSafe on 1800 019 115.