The Fire Service has called for fireworks users to be vigilant when it comes to safety.
Last year the Fire Service attended 23 fireworks-related fires in the lower South Island during the Guy Fawkes period and fireworks were suspected of causing several other fires. East Otago fire risk management officer Michael Harrison said Guy Fawkes always kept firefighters busy.
''Firefighters will be attending a number of fires and fireworks-related injuries over the next few weeks. These incidents are totally avoidable if people use fireworks safely,'' he said.
For their own safety and the safety of others, people should be cautious when using fireworks.
Otago Rural Fire Authority deputy principal rural fire officer Graeme Still said people should check the fire risk in their area before they lit fireworks.
''If the fire danger is high in your area, there is a higher probability of fireworks igniting vegetation,'' he said.
''If a fire occurs, the person lighting the fireworks could be liable for any costs associated with extinguishing that fire.''
The SPCA reminded people to remember pets and other animals could be startled by the noise and sight of fireworks.
''The loud noises and bright flashes are unfamiliar to animals and many will become highly stressed by them,'' RNZSPCA chief executive Ric Odom said.
''We would like to think that most pet owners are responsible and will keep their pets inside and safe at this time, but those without pets of their own or who live close to where animals are being kept also need to be aware of the stress their use of fireworks is likely to be causing in their neighbourhood.''
Fireworks went on sale yesterday and can be bought from retailers until November 5.
Safe procedures
• Light fireworks in open areas away from buildings, hedges, long grass and other vegetation.
• Do not use fireworks when drinking alcohol.
• Never let children light fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose handy.
• Keep unlit fireworks in a metal container or box until ready to be used.
• Do not use fireworks around animals.
