Guy Fawkes is usually accompanied by trends of silliness – some people disguise themselves by dressing funny, while others are smeared with paint, or thrown with eggs and water.
But over the years it has also become a front for crime and criminal activities to hurt and humiliate other people. And usually school children are targeted.
Preparation
Every year Guy Fawkes takes place on 5 November – this year on a Sunday.
According to Aletta Lottering, a member of the Safety Parent Patrollers group in Ruyterwacht, security agents such as their group, the police, law enforcement, the neighborhood watch and community policing forums are prepared and ready for Guy Fawkes.
Lottering says that last year Guy Fawkes was very peaceful and hope that it will also be peaceful this year.
According to Lottering, Guy Fawkes not only affects people, but also animals.
No fireworks without permits
“Everyone joins hands to maintain the safety of people and animals,” says Lottering. The City of Cape Town said traditionally October and November see an increase in complaints related to fireworks, particularly in relation to Guy Fawkes. The City sends out a stern warning that no fireworks may be displayed without a permit.
The Animal Anti-Cruelty League Cape Town (AACL) stated that as with other animal welfare organisations, they see numerous lost and/or injured animals after any event where fireworks are present. “Animals’ hearing are hyper sensitive to the sound of fireworks and when in distress, when the flight response kicks in, they can and will break through and over the most secure barriers,” says AACL.
Increased patrols
With regards to Guy Fawkes, Wayne Dyason, spokesperson for law enforcement, said the City’s enforcement agencies will increase patrols, based on historical hotspots, but also respond to any incidents that might occur. “Any reported incident will be swiftly followed up by officers based on available resources,” says Dyason.
The City would like to advise the public to be cautious and report emergencies or call the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 47700 from a cellphone and 107 from a landline.
