Celebrate Territory Day the Safe Way

Every year on 1 July, Territorians celebrate the day the Northern Territory achieved self-government in 1978. As part of the celebrations, the public can legally buy, use and possess fireworks within approved periods. This year, the fireworks approved periods are:

  • Sale of fireworks – Saturday 1 July, 9 am to 9 pm
  • Use of fireworks – Saturday 1 July, 6 pm to 11 pm
  • Possession of fireworks – Saturday 1 July, 9 am to Monday 3 July, 12 noon

Be prepared

  • Only buy fireworks from a licensed retailer.
  • Keep spectators at a safe distance, at least 10 metres from ignition site.
  • Clear the area of all dry materials such as grass and mulch.
  • Have a hose or a couple of buckets of water handy.
  • Wear cotton clothing around fireworks.
  • Keep your fireworks in a covered container or have a responsible person look after them.

Tips on how to use fireworks safely

  • Read and follow all safety labels and instructions.
  • Light only one firework at a time.
  • Stabilise fireworks to ensure they do not fall over when firing.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person or place any part of your body directly over a firework device.
  • Never pick up or relight a dud firework. Wait 20 minutes, pour water on it and dispose of it properly.
  • Never ignite aerial fireworks near or below trees, near a building opening or anything else that it may hit.
  • Wet down all fireworks debris after use.
  • Don’t drop the fireworks straight into a bin or leave them unattended.

Children and Pet Safety

  • Always have an adult present and never give fireworks to children under 12.
  • Light only one sparkler at a time and do not use a lit sparkler to light another one.
  • Hold sparklers well away from body and clothing.
  • Make sure your pets are secured safely before you ignite any fireworks.

First aid

Go to the below link for what to do in the event of a fireworks injury:

https://nt.gov.au/wellbeing/emergencies-injuries-and-accidents/fireworks-injury

Important contact information:

In the event of an emergency, dial 000

Department of health

Website: www.nt.gov.au/health

Health Direct Australia – 1800 022 222

NT Fire & Rescue Service

Phone: 08 8999 3473

Website: www.pfes.nt.gov.au/fire-and-rescue-service

NT WorkSafe

Phone: 1800 019 115