BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) yesterday reminded vendors to sell only items from the police-approved list. Operations officer ASP Ak Saifuddin Pg Hj Yussof said list could be obtained from the police.

Speaking to reporters at police headquarters, he said list contained 10 pages of about 173 fireworks and firecrackers and 64 mini-fireworks.

The operations officer warned people not to light them at prayer times or late in the night to the extent that it disturbs the peace of other people.

The press conference was called to ensure public safety during the festive season and advised on the dos and don'ts of playing with the explosive materials.

Playing firecrackers or fireworks that have not been approved by the police is prohibited, which can lead to a prison sentence or caning.

Playing fireworks in public places can also lead to a fine of $250 and creating your own firecrackers can lead to one year imprisonment or a fine of $2,000.

"Parents or guardians must ensure that children are always accompanied and supervised by an adult when playing approved firecrackers or fireworks to avoid any unfortunate occurrences," he said, Anyone with information on shops or individuals selling fireworks without the approval of the police should contact the police through the hotline — 993.

Meanwhile, DSP Nur Haidah Hj Abd Hallim, acting head of the Public Relations Unit, took the opportunity to advise the public on preventing crime during the upcoming festive season.

To avoid a criminal from entering the house, the Royal Brunei Police Force suggested taking various steps such as installing safety equipment at the main door including peepholes, chain locks and safety latches.

"Those planning to leave their homes for a short duration of time should also remember to light up their houses, inform the neighbours or the police so that they can be on the lookout for any suspicious activity or people around their homes while they are away," she said.

She also reminded the public to practise safety on the road, such as not to use mobile phones while driving and to refrain from driving if tired as well as to be patient on the road.

The Brunei Times