Joburg EMS to crack down on fireworks, risks in CBD

The City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Management Services (EMS) is set to roll out intensified emergency and fire safety enforcement operations in the inner city on 30 and 31 December 2025, as part of a broader public safety drive during the festive season.

The operations form part of the city’s public safety bylaw enforcement initiative and will focus on reducing fire risks, strengthening emergency preparedness and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.

A key area of attention will be the handling, storage, sale and use of fireworks, which pose heightened risks in densely populated urban areas.

According the Johannesburg EMS spokesperson, Kagiso Phasha, officials will conduct inspections at buildings, businesses and trading areas across the inner city.

He added that the inspections will target common fire hazards, including blocked or inaccessible emergency exits, illegal electrical connections unsafe storage of flammable materials and non-compliance with fireworks regulations.

Phasha further warned that any unauthorised sale or unsafe use of fireworks will be dealt with in accordance with municipal bylaws.

Where immediate danger to life or property is identified, EMS has the authority to order evacuations, stop hazardous activities, issue compliance instructions or take enforcement action to prevent fires, explosions or other emergencies.

The enforcement operation will be carried out in close coordination with several city departments and stakeholders, including the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Environmental Health, development planning unit and the Central Region Urban Management (CRUM).

Emergency services haveurged business owners, residents and members of the public to cooperate fully with officials and to comply with all fire safety and fireworks regulations.

The city has emphasised that these measures are critical to prevent injuries, fires and loss of life, particularly during the festive season when the inner city experiences increased activity and congestion.

According to the city, the operations are also aimed at promoting a culture of safety and responsibility to protect lives, property and infrastructure in one of Johannesburg’s most densely populated areas.