WorkSafe is urging people to stay safe and steer clear of celebrating the new year with illegal fireworks.
Unauthorised fireworks displays are illegal and can have catastrophic consequences.
It is a crime for anyone other than licensed pyrotechnicians to use or possess fireworks, which are classed as a type of explosive under the Dangerous Goods Act.
With eased COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria, WorkSafe Health and Safety executive director Narelle Beer is encouraging people to attend official fireworks displays only.
“Spectacular fireworks displays are being prepared across Victoria,” she said.
“There’s absolutely no reason why anyone should be tempted to risk using fireworks themselves.
“Not only do those who possess fireworks illegally face imprisonment and hefty fines, but they’re risking their life and the lives of those around them.”
In 2021, WorkSafe destroyed 731kg of fireworks that were seized or surrendered, compared with 626kg in 2020.
There have been no fireworks-related fatalities in Victoria since 2016.
Fireworks-related injuries have reduced, according to the Victorian Injury Surveillance Unit at Monash University.
Thirteen people presented at emergency departments in the 2020-21 financial year, compared to 17 in the previous 12 months.
Of the 116 people treated at emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries in the five years to June 2021, 75 per cent were male and more than a third were aged in their 20s.
Fire Rescue Victoria Commissioner Ken Block said firefighters responded to 163 incidents involving fireworks in the past five years.
“Some of these fires have resulted in severe injuries, significant damage to property and even disruptions to the public transport network,” he said.
“Many of the incidents were started by children and teens, so I urge all parents to talk to their children about the dangers of fireworks.”