Talisay watching firecracker sellers

CEBU, Philippines - Aiming for "zero-fire" this yuletide season, the Talisay City fire department is closely keeping an eye on the firecracker business.

Talisay City Fire Marshal Felipe Canillas said to prevent accidents, stores and malls have been denied permits to sell any kind of fireworks.

And to make sure that this policy is followed, a team from the fire department has been making the rounds in malls and stores since last week.

Meanwhile, Canillas said some areas in barangay Lagtang have been designated for firecracker vendors.

The fire marshall however advised vendors to display their pyrotechnic materials in this area only.

 Any pyrotechnic product displayed outside the designated areas will be seized.

 Canillas said firecracker vendors are advised to secure retailer's permit from the Firearms and Explosives Security Agency Guards Supervision (FESAGS).

 Under Republic Act 7183 or an Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devises, "any person who manufactures, sells, distributes or uses firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in violation of this Act shall be fined of not less than P20,000 or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both fined and imprisoned, and his license and business permit canceled."

Canillas said the selling period is from Dec. 16 to 31 only. (FREEMAN)