WorkSafe ACT inspectors and police have launched a crackdown on illegal fireworks ahead of Orthodox Easter celebrations this weekend.
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Officers will be targeting areas in known firework hotspots in Kingston and Barton ahead of the religious celebrations, which fall on April 27 and 28 this year.
ACT work safety commissioner Greg Jones said WorkSafe had been in contact with the Greek Orthodox archdiocese on the issue.
"We are working collectively to stamp out this practice and our message is clear: setting off illegal fireworks is not worth the risk of injury or getting caught," Mr Jones said.
"As well as annoyance and disruption to the community, the illegal release of fireworks not only poses a risk to those undertaking the activity, but also to the wider community.
"WorkSafe as well as ACT Policing have been in contact with the Greek Orthodox archdiocese of Australia on this issue and the fireworks are not organised or endorsed by the archdiocese in any way."
Fireworks are often a traditional part of celebrations for Orthodox Easter in Greece, with many cities being lit up to mark the resurrection of Jesus.
Rival parishes on Greek islands in previous years have marked Orthodox Easter by firing handmade fireworks at each other's churches.
Orthodox denominations celebrate Easter on a different date to the Easter celebrated in most Christian countries.
Mr Jones said officers would patrol areas in the southside suburbs for unexploded fireworks.
"If a member of the community finds unexploded fireworks in the area, they should not attempt to pick it up or dispose of it themselves, and report it to Access Canberra," he said.
"Pets are often stressed by the noise from illegally lit fireworks and I would urge owners to make arrangements to keep their animals safe and secure."
Fireworks were banned in the ACT in 2009.
Community members who spot illegal fireworks in the area can contact ACT Policing on 131 444 or Access Canberra on 13 22 81.