Abu Dhabi Police issue fireworks warning as Eid holiday draws near

The force has launched a new campaign to highlight the dangers of pyrotechnics

Eid provides an ideal time to consider how celebrations can be incorporated into achievements on the job. Jeffrey E Biteng / The National

Police in Abu Dhabi are urging families to celebrate the holidays safely - after issuing a reminder that potentially hazardous fireworks are anything but child's play.

With Eid Al Fitr fast approaching - a period often marked with spectacular pyrotechnic displays - officers are calling on the public to keep fireworks out of the wrong hands.

The force has launched an awareness campaign called 'Don't Spoil Our Happiness' in a bid to make sure festivities end with a bang but not in tragedy.

As well as the potential for people to suffer serious burns if fireworks are misused, their toxic fumes can also pose a danger, said brigadier Salem Al Bloushi, a weapons and explosives expert at Abu Dhabi Police.

The senior police officer said pyrotechnics can also be a noise nuisance, particularly for older members of the community.

Lieutenant colonel Saif Al Ketbi said rogue traders caught trying to bring fireworks into the country or manufacture them without a licence face being hit with up to six months in jail and a fine of up to Dh10,000.

For those eager for some light entertainment, free firework displays will be held during the Eid break at Yas Marina, offering a safer alternative to holding private events.

The Eid holidays are set to get into full swing from early next week.

Private sector workers will have four days off for Eid Al Fitr this year, according to a circular from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

The holiday begins on Ramadan 29, or Monday, June 3, and ends Shawwal 3 - which will be either Thursday, June 6, or Friday, June 7, depending on the length of Ramadan.

The UAE's moon-sighting committee will announce the length of the holy month closer to the time.

The holiday is a day less than public sector workers will have. Government workers will have a week off beginning Sunday, June 2, and ending Thursday, June 6, according to the UAE Cabinet.