Karnataka Police has permitted only green firecrackers between 8 pm and 10 pm for Deepavali. The restrictions seek to prevent accidents, noise distress, fires and unlawful sales.
Ahead of Deepavali, Karnataka Police on Monday issued safety guidelines allowing people to burst only green firecrackers between 8 pm and 10 pm, news agency Press Trust of India reported. The police also asked people to avoid bursting crackers in public places and crowded areas to prevent accidents.In case of an accident or emergency while bursting firecrackers, people should immediately call the emergency helplines 112 or 108 for assistance, the police said.Citing Supreme Court directions, the police said firecrackers could be burst only during the permitted period from 8 pm to 10 pm, and only green crackers should be used.“Firecrackers shall not be burst in public places, including bus stands, railway stations, hospitals, educational institutions, religious places and other crowded or sensitive locations,” the police said in a statement cited by PTI.
People have been advised to maintain a safe distance while bursting crackers and avoid using them near thatched structures, huts, inflammable materials, vehicles, trees and other objects that could catch fire.Children should not be allowed to burst firecrackers without supervision. Parents and guardians must accompany and guide them and ensure that all safety precautions are followed, the police said.
The police urged people to avoid firecrackers that produce excessive noise, saying loud sounds could distress or harm senior citizens, patients, infants and others.People were also cautioned against buying firecrackers from online platforms or unauthorised sellers. “If illegal sale or storage of firecrackers is noticed, inform the local police or call 112,” the statement said. Firecrackers should be bought only from licensed shops, and buyers should check the QR code or label on the packaging to ensure that the products are genuine and authorised.The police warned people against bursting firecrackers near electrical installations, transformers, power lines and other electrical equipment.
Appropriate safety measures should be taken to prevent fires and electrical accidents.“After bursting firecrackers, ensure that they are completely extinguished. Do not leave partially burnt or unexploded crackers unattended.
Dispose of used firecrackers safely; do not throw them into drains, garbage piles or water bodies,” the statement said.People should keep a bucket of water, sand or another suitable fire-extinguishing material nearby while bursting crackers. “In case of fire, take immediate steps to extinguish it and call the fire and emergency services, if required,” the police said.After the celebrations, people should clean their surroundings and safely dispose of firecracker waste in designated bins or as directed by local authorities. All guidelines issued by the government and other competent authorities must be followed strictly.
Violations could lead to legal action, including prosecution by the police, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board and other enforcement agencies.The guidelines require people to use only green firecrackers during the permitted two-hour period, follow safety precautions, buy crackers from licensed shops and seek emergency help when necessary.- Ends