Muscat – Oman Customs, in coordination with the Royal Oman Police (ROP), has issued a stern public warning about the extreme dangers posed by the use and possession of firecrackers, urging residents to exercise caution and abide by national safety regulations.

As part of an ongoing nationwide awareness campaign, the two authorities are working together to educate the public about the serious health and safety hazards associated with firecrackers. While often perceived as harmless celebratory items, firecrackers can cause severe burns, hearing loss, eye injuries, and, in some tragic cases, permanent disabilities or fatalities.

‘Firecrackers – You light them in seconds, but they can extinguish your life forever,’ the campaign cautions, reflecting the devastating impact even a single mishap can have.

Customs officials have also confirmed increased inspections and border control efforts to prevent the illegal import of pyrotechnics into the country. Oman strictly prohibits the sale, possession, or use of firecrackers without official approval, and violators may face legal action, including fines, confiscation, and possible imprisonment.

In recent years, hospitals in Oman have reported several injuries during festive seasons caused by the unsafe or unsupervised use of firecrackers, particularly among children and teenagers. Authorities are therefore appealing to parents, educators, and community leaders to spread awareness and discourage the use of these hazardous items.

Officials reiterated that safer alternatives are available for celebration and called on the public to report any suspicious activity or illegal sales related to firecrackers via the ROP’s emergency hotline or the Oman Customs communication channels.

The campaign is part of a broader effort to foster a culture of safety and responsibility, particularly during public holidays and special occasions.