There’s something undeniably magical about fireworks lighting up the night sky during festive seasons.
Whether it’s Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, or Deepavali, these bright bursts of colour bring excitement, joy, and a sense of celebration.
But if you’re a parent or someone with a pet, you know that the moment those first fireworks go off, your heart sinks.
Instead of enjoying the festive cheer, you’re bracing for the inevitable: the baby waking up in terror or your pet cowering in fear.
Fireworks are fun but they can also be a nightmare – for parents, pet owners, and anyone who just wants a peaceful night’s sleep.
They can cause distress, injuries and unexpected chaos when handled improperly.
So, how can we enjoy these displays without the drama?
As we approach Hari Raya, lets look into the good, the bad, and the safety tips every family needs to know.
Are Fireworks Even Legal in Malaysia?
If you’ve ever wondered whether all those fireworks that light up the night sky are actually legal, the answer is a bit complicated.
Technically, the sale and use of most fireworks in Malaysia have been made illegal under the Minor Offences Act 1955 and the Explosives Act 1957.
However, in recent years, the government has relaxed the rules a little:
- Only 45 types of fireworks from approved brands (like Pop-Pop and HappyBoom) are allowed for sale.
- Vendors must obtain a licence from the police to sell fireworks legally.
- Online sales of fireworks are completely illegal.
Massive fireworks or thunderous firecrackers that shake the whole neighbourhood are not supposed to be there.
But every festive season, they somehow appear out of nowhere, ensuring that your family, pets, and entire street won’t be getting a good night’s sleep.
Keeping Your Family Safe During Fireworks Season
As much as we’d love for fireworks to be silent but still spectacular, that’s not happening anytime soon.
So, if you can’t avoid them, the next best thing is to prepare.
For Families with Young Children
If you’ve got little ones who hate loud noises, fireworks season can be stressful.
Here’s how to soften the blow:
- Soundproof their room: If you know fireworks will be going off, close the windows, draw the curtains, and use white noise machines or soft music to muffle the sound.
- Prepare them in advance: Talk to your child about what fireworks are, so they don’t wake up scared, thinking a bomb has gone off.
- Plan for early celebrations: If your child loves fireworks but can’t stay up late, consider attending an earlier display or watching recordings of fireworks instead.
- Comfort items: A favourite stuffed toy, blanket, or even noise-cancelling headphones can help anxious kids feel more secure.
For Parents Who Just Want Sleep
If you’re a sleep-deprived parent, fireworks season is your worst enemy.
Since banning fireworks from your area isn’t an option, here’s what you can do:
- Manage expectations: If you know it’s a festive season, mentally prepare yourself for the inevitable late-night booms.
- Take shifts: If your little one wakes up crying every time there’s a firework, you and your partner can take turns soothing them, so one of you still gets some rest.
- Use white noise: A fan or an actual white noise machine can help drown out the sudden blasts.
When Can Kids Safely Enjoy Fireworks?
Fireworks are fascinating, especially for children.
But at what age is it appropriate for them to be involved?
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Under 5 Years Old: It’s best for young children to watch fireworks from a safe distance. Their reflexes and understanding aren’t developed enough to handle fireworks safely.
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Ages 5 to 12: Children can enjoy holding sparklers under close adult supervision. Ensure they hold them at arm’s length and explain the importance of not waving them near others.
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Ages 12 and Up: Older children can participate more actively, like helping to set up fireworks, but shouldn’t light them. Always have an adult handle the ignition.
Keeping Your Pets Safe from Fireworks
Pets are often the biggest victims of fireworks season.
Dogs and cats have much sharper hearing than humans.
So, even what seems like a small firecracker to us can sound like an explosion to them.
To keep them safe and calm, follow these tips:
- Keep them indoors: If you know fireworks will be happening, make sure your pets stay inside where it’s quieter.
- Create a safe space: Set up a cosy area with their favourite toys and blankets in a room away from the noise.
- Block out the sound: Play soft music or turn on the TV to help mask the noise outside.
- Consider anxiety aids: If your pet gets extremely anxious, you can try pet-calming treats or talk to your vet about mild sedatives.
Fireworks Can Be Fun – If We’re Mindful About Them
At the end of the day, fireworks aren’t the enemy.
They bring joy, beauty, and tradition to our festive celebrations; and for many, they’re one of the best parts of the season.
But that doesn’t mean we should ignore the downsides.
If you’re setting off fireworks, do it responsibly – at a reasonable hour, away from pets and young children, and always following safety precautions.
And if you’re dealing with the aftermath of someone else’s fireworks, know that you’re not alone in your frustration.
May we all get through this festive season with joy, love, and maybe just a little bit of uninterrupted sleep!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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