TT Fire Service Warns Public On Fireworks And Electrical Safety
The use of fireworks has been known to accompany the festive season, providing a burst of colour that sparks smiles and wonder. However, this year, there are a few changes regarding the use of the celebratory display.
In an interview with TTT News, Fire Sub-Officer at the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service Jude Rogers warned that anyone seeking to utilise fireworks for public display would have to seek permission from the police to be granted a licence to do so. In addition, they must also inform the Fire Service fourteen days in advance. He added that the law clearly prescribes when fireworks can be used.
It follows an amendment to The Summary Offences Act, 2025 (Chapter 11:02), which pertains to the discharge of fireworks.
« On a public holiday, the law prescribes between the hours of 8pm and 9pm. Specifically on that holiday, members of the public are allowed to use fireworks, that is the consumer-type fireworks, not the ones you would see on Independence Day. And also on New Year’s Eve into New Year’s, members of the public have a window of opportunity from December 31st at 11:30pm to 12:30am, January 1st, 2026, which they would be allowed to utilise the fireworks. »
Fire Sub-Officer Rogers also cautioned citizens to be very mindful of how they use electricity, as improper use can result in fires.
« Do not overload circuits, do not put multiple plugs or what we call multi-tapping as well daisy-chaining, which is to put more than three strings of electrical items into each other, and a lot of people do that by adding extension cords and using them permanently, which we recommend that you don’t do. »
With recent deaths and injuries linked to faulty LPG gas tanks, Mr. Rogers said upon purchasing a gas tank, a soapy water test can be done to investigate for leaks at the base and also around the welds.
« But your best bet is to use your nose and your ability to smell because the gas, LPG is a pungent smell that you’re going to figure out. »
In the event there is a leak, no lights, electrical items, or any sort of ignition should be engaged; rather, gas regulators should be turned off, and windows and doors opened to permit ventilation.
