Police have issued strict guidelines to venues planning fireworks displays during New Year celebrations, warning that no display should exceed five minutes.
The police said the regulations, often ignored in previous years will this time be strictly enforced to minimise accidents, injuries, and property damage during the festivities.
The police spokesperson, Mr Rusoke Kituma, said only applicants formally cleared by police will be allowed to conduct fireworks displays, all of which must be handled exclusively by licensed blasters in accordance with the Explosives Act.
‘We don’t want a situation where anyone thinks they can set off their own and must only be handled by licensed professionals,’ Mr Kituma said.
He added that counterterrorism officers will escort fireworks materials to approved venues and supervise displays alongside respective district police commanders (DPCs).
Mr Kituma said in previous years, some venues displayed fireworks for more than 10 minutes, a practice police said will not be tolerated this year.
‘There is a reason we put it at five minutes. It is enough time to give people an enjoyable experience while reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, or property damage,’ he said.
Among the approved venues are Mengo Lubiri, Lugogo Cricket Oval, Freedom City, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Speke Resort Munyonyo, Mestil Hotel, Golden Castle Hotel in Hoima, Meka Eco Resort, Bunyoro Kitara Diocese, Catalyst Hillside Resort Bomba Hotel in Kitgum. The police also approved several venues in Busia, Iganga, Pader, Kalangala, Butaleja, Mayuge, Bugweri, Bushenyi, Bukedea, Kaliro, Soroti, Mbale, and Sironko.
Police also directed that all fireworks events must be advertised in advance through electronic and print media, particularly local FM radio stations and newspapers, to alert surrounding communities.
‘Area DPCs reserve the authority to stop any fireworks display that does not comply with the guidelines. Any unused fireworks must be handled strictly by a person holding a valid explosives or blasters licence,’ Mr Kituma said.
Police further warned against the burning of tyres during celebrations, saying the practice is illegal and damages public infrastructure. This year, an estimated 2,000 venues, including hotels, gardens, entertainment spots, and places of worship have been cleared to host fireworks displays.
Police said New Year’s Eve celebrations, often marked by fireworks at churches, bars, and public venues, will be closely monitored nationwide. Under the guidelines, organisers are required to conduct on-site safety assessments, provide at least 10 functional fire extinguishers, and establish emergency mechanisms to interrupt firing in case of danger.
No spectators, parked vehicles, or occupied buildings are allowed within fireworks blasting sites, and smoking or open flames are prohibited within 50 feet of fireworks materials. Police also warned that persons under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications are barred from approaching display areas.