Police advise against using sparklers during festive season

SINGAPORE - As the festive season draws near, the police would like to remind the public that setting off improvised explosive devices constructed using sparklers is illegal.

"Such improvised explosive devices (including sparklers bundled together) are a potential fire hazard, and causes noise pollution and undue alarm to the public. The blast effect from the explosion can also cause injury to persons and damage to property," said the police.

While the importation and sale of some types of sparklers are legal in Singapore, the use of sparklers should be done in a responsible manner according to the safety guidelines prescribed by the manufacturer, said the police.

Anyone caught setting off improvised explosive devices may be prosecuted in court for either an offence of negligent conduct with respect to any fire or combustible matter, or negligent conduct with respect to any explosive substance.

If convicted of either offence, the offender will be liable to an imprisonment term which may extend to one year or fine up to S$5,000, or with both.

maryanns@sph.com.sg