Sparks fly over fireworks show

By Callan Date
A BERWICK resident wants stricter laws regarding firework displays after her two horses were threatened.
Michele said she was in disbelief when a “massive fireworks show” was conducted dangerously close to her house late last month.
Enraging Michele further is the fact the display was approved by the City of Casey.
“I thought it was the Berwick Show it was that big. It made the whole house go boom,” Michele said.
The fireworks went for about 10 minutes and terrified Michele’s two horses.
“Horses are easily spooked. I had to go out and try to calm them down.”
Michele, who did not want her surname revealed, said the property where the fireworks were let off should have been more responsible.
“None of my neighbours were alerted.
“They should at least notify all the residents within a certain distance. I just want to know why would you do this in a suburban neighbourhood.”
As a result of inquiries from Michele, Casey officers will review council’s current fireworks procedure.
Acting manager administration Jarrod Doake said Casey would investigate several measures to inform residents about future fireworks displays in residential properties.
“In the future (we will) review the need as to whether such applicants should notify all properties within a one kilometre radius of the release and to provide a ‘letter drop’ to all residents affected to secure all animals that may be frightened,” Mr Doake said.
However, Michele still wants questions answered.
“You have got to wonder how they got a permit issued. I would like to speak to someone who approved it.
“The land out there is so dry at the moment. It would have been a major fire hazard also,” she said.
WorkSafe spokesman Michael Birt said fireworks seemed to be somewhat of a common problem throughout the Casey area.
He said a young boy was seriously injured in Doveton when he was struck in the head by a firework a couple of years ago.
“If you want to put on a fireworks display you have to notify us (WorkSafe), the local council and local fire brigade,” Mr Birt said.
“There have been instances where horses have run into fences and died as a result. Apart from horses, dogs and other pets are annoyed by fireworks.”
Mr Birt said fireworks were extremely dangerous and could result in death if everything didn’t go to plan.
Mr Doake said another possible measure would be to take out a newspaper advertisement advising the community of the date and times of the firework show.