Saudi- Authorities launch caign against sale of fireworks

(MENAFN- Arab News) JEDDAH: Security authorities have intensified inspections to curb the sale of fireworks on the streets
and inside markets.

Customs too imposed strict procedures at ports to prevent the smuggling of fireworks.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry instituted an award of SR5000 for those who report warehouses that sell fireworks.
The ministry said that these procedures came within its efforts to educate people about the dangers of using fireworks and as an extension of its previous awareness campaign called 'Weapons in the hands of your child.'
The main aim of the campaign is to call on everyone to cooperate in limiting the dangers of fireworks.
The ministry confirmed that it will destroy all confiscated fireworks and stressed that it will impose tough punishment against those involved in storing explosive substances that harm consumers. The ministry called on consumers to cooperate and report warehouses that house fireworks.
Civil Defense spokesman in Riyadh Capt. Mohammad Al-Hammadi warned against the dangers of fireworks used to celebrate Eid or other occasions saying they pose grave danger.
He called on parents to watch their children and prevent them from buying fireworks since some of the powerful ones lack safety requirements.
He said Civil Defense always clarifies the dangers of fireworks for children and called for raising the awareness about the dangers.
Police in Riyadh started implementing an inspection campaign in various areas and were able to confiscate large quantities of fireworks; many random kiosks that sold them have been removed.
In the past many children suffered injuries to their eyes because of the sparks emitted from fireworks in addition to burns to the skin from the hot ash. Fireworks don't pose danger only to users but also to those standing nearby and to nearby property in addition to the noise pollution that affects the eardrum.
Reports point to the family role in avoiding these accidents and maintaining their children's safety. Fathers should not encourage their children to buy fireworks or light them.
Families should educate their children on the dangers of fireworks. They should question their children where they spend their money and continuously monitor their behavior.