Media release

Territory Day 2022

Fire and Rescue
Police

Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services encourage Territorians to enjoy Territory Day and to celebrate the safe way. 

The Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service are taking several precautions for this year’s “Cracker Night” with preparations for enhanced crewing and resources across emergency response areas. An Incident Management Team will be established for the night to support our volunteer, auxiliary and career firefighters across the Territory and ensure the safety of Territorians and visitors. 

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Joshua Fischer said fireworks can be dangerous and present a high risk of causing unintentional fire ignitions or harm. “We encourage Territorians and visitors to ensure all fireworks are used in line with any instructions or warnings as prescribed by the manufacturer.”

“The risk of increased fires caused by fireworks igniting grass, bushland and other flammable material reduces our capacity to respond to other emergency incidents such as rescuing people from road crashes and structure fires. 

“It is recommended that either buckets of water or a working hose are kept in close proximity to any areas where fireworks are being let off. This will ensure that any fire which starts as a result of a firework can be quickly extinguished, reducing the need for our firefighters to attend.”

For one day only on 1 July, the public is allowed to purchase fireworks from retailers between 9:00am and 9:00pm and the use of fireworks is only permitted between 6:00pm and 11:00pm. 

NT Police can issue on the spot fines if people use fireworks in a way that could damage property or injure a person or animal. Fines can also be issued if people are in possession of fireworks after midday on Monday 4 July 2022. Police have been working closely with the fire and rescue service in the lead up to Territory Day, to ensure any inappropriate behaviour relating to fireworks is identified and addressed.  

The public are reminded to keep updated on the NT Fire Incident Map, PFES Facebook page, SecureNT and Bushfires NT pages respectively. 

People with unused fireworks can contact NT WorkSafe on 1800 019 115 to organise return of fireworks for safe disposal. Fireworks can also be handed in to a police station front counter.