Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services urge the public to keep safe during Territory day celebrations this year.

In past years, marine flares have been set off as part of fireworks celebrations. Flares must not be deployed in any circumstances other than for genuine emergency situations.

Senior Constable Chris Kilian from the Marine and Fisheries Section said "this creates a dangerous situation as limited resources have previously been dedicated to responding to false search and rescues".

Police remind people who want to watch the Mindil Beach fire works display from on the water that there is an exclusion zone 300 metres from the firing pontoon off Mindil Beach. All skippers will need to observe this zone and follow directions of Police.

"Police along with Darwin City Council staff will be patrolling Mindil Beach to ensure public safety is adhered to".

The Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) have appealed to the public to take extreme care and to follow standard safety procedures and take simple precautions on the night to prevent injury and fires.

NTFRS A/Assistant Director Operations - Steve Osborne said a fire cracker generates intense heat and when brought into contact with combustible material can be extremely hazardous.

"Parents have a responsibility to properly supervise children at all times and set a positive example in the safe usage of fireworks and the welfare of family pets should not be overlooked".

Fireworks should be stabilised in a bucket of sand and in a cleared area away from trees and buildings and lit only within the designated hours.

"As an extra precaution, a hose connected to a tap and/or buckets of water should be placed nearby and all spent fireworks must be handled and disposed of carefully by adults only".

Media Contact:
Rickie Scoot
8922 3185