Police would like to remind the public that it is an offence to let off fireworks before and after Territory Day and anyone found setting them off outside the allowed times of 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm may face prosecution. Temporary outlets selling fireworks are reminded that sales are only permitted between 9:00am and 9:00pm on 1 July. Members of the public who are concerned with the use of fireworks outside the prescribed times should report the matter to Police with an exact location and/or description of the offender. Territory Day is traditionally busy for Police Communications who receive a vast number of calls relating to cracker night related issues. Police encourage the public to ring only if there is a threat to property or life which will greatly reduce the pressure on call takers and enable them to respond to serious incidents if they arise. Police will be conducting land and water patrols on Territory Day and would also like to remind the public that Mindil Beach has an exclusion zone for the period of 6:00pm to 11:00pm. Darwin City Council Rangers and Police will be patrolling the area and issuing infringement notices to anyone caught in possession or igniting fireworks within the restricted area. The Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service have appealed to the public to take extreme care, follow standard safety procedures and take simple precautions on the night to prevent injury and fires.
Sarah Trinne
8922 3531