00:00As Trinidad and Tobago celebrates Diwali 2026, Prime Minister Kamala Prasad-Basasa has issued a statement reminding all citizens of
00:07the provisions of the Summary Offenses Amendment Act 2025 concerning the use of fireworks.
00:13Prime Minister Prasad-Basasa said that fireworks may be discharged on public holidays between 8 p.m. and 9 p
00:20.m. only without requiring a permit.
00:23The Prime Minister also noted that the legislation also prohibits the discharge of fireworks within half a mile of hospitals,
00:31airports, zoos, registered animal shelters, farms where animals are reared, forest reserves, and national parks.
00:39Prime Minister Prasad-Basasa is encouraging everyone to celebrate responsibly, respecting their neighbors, elderly citizens, young children, and animals who
00:48may be distressed by loud explosions.
00:50Deputy Commissioner of Police with Responsibility for Operations Suzette Martin also issued a statement in which she said that as
00:58Trinidad and Tobago celebrates Diwali and prepares for Christmas and the New Year, she's urging everyone to make safety, compassion,
01:05and consideration part of every celebration.
01:08Deputy Police Commissioner Martin said, quote, fireworks and loud explosions can cause significant distress to animals.
01:15They may panic, escape from their homes, run into traffic, or injure themselves while trying to find safety.
01:21Our enjoyment must be accompanied by responsibility for those around us, including the animals that depend on our care, end
01:29quote.
01:29The Deputy Police Commissioner called on pet owners to prepare early as she advised that they keep their animals securely
01:37indoors and where possible provide a quiet and comfortable space, check gates, and fences, and ensure their pets carry identification.
01:46DCP Martin also advised, quote, if your animal experiences severe distress, seek guidance from a veterinarian, end quote.
01:54DCP Martin also appealed to members of the public to be considerate of neighboring households and animal shelters and avoid
02:01setting off fireworks near animals and never direct fireworks at any person or animal.
02:06Deputy Police Commissioner Martin commended Animals Alive, its volunteers and animal welfare partners, for their continued dedication to protecting vulnerable
02:14animals, as she also said public safety is a shared responsibility.
02:20Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
