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The Government will launch two radio announcements tomorrow (February 11) to remind members of the public not to use any quantity of special effects materials (including pyrotechnic materials and liquefied petroleum gas) unless a discharge permit has been obtained from the Television and Entertainment Licensing Authority (TELA).
"The use, transport and storage of fireworks or pyrotechnic materials without the proper permits are illegal in Hong Kong. The unauthorised use of these materials is dangerous and could start a fire and cause serious injuries," a Government spokesman said.
"If the public sees anyone illegally bringing in or using fireworks or pyrotechnic materials, they should call the police immediately. They should also familiarise themselves with an escape route inside clubs or entertainment premises and in the case of fire, stay calm and leave the premises in an orderly manner," the spokesman added.
The safety appeal was issued following recent fatal blazes in places outside Hong Kong caused by improper use of pyrotechnic materials.
The spokesman noted that TELA was issuing a letter that will be sent in batches to owners/management of entertainment venues/companies, reminding them to make every effort to ensure that any special effects activity they plan to conduct and/or allow in their premises has been approved by TELA by means of a discharge permit. They include film production companies; pyrotechnic effects production companies; television companies; event organisers/public relation companies; hotels; theatres/cinemas; conference halls; discos/night clubs and karaoke places.
Under section 10 of the Entertainment Special Effects Ordinance (Cap. 560), any person who discharges or causes or permits to be discharged any special effects materials without a discharge permit is liable on a first conviction to a maximum fine of $100,000 and to imprisonment for six months. In addition, under the provisions of the Dangerous Goods Ordinance (Cap.295) and the Crime Ordinance (Cap.200), it is illegal to possess/convey/store any fireworks (such as fire crackers, sparklers, Roman candles, etc.), except for authorised operators.
For application criteria and procedures to apply for a discharge permit for producing special effects, please visit TELA's website (www.tela-esela.gov.hk/en/index_g.asp).
Ends/Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:13
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