Fireworks will be flying off the shelves from 9am this morning as Territorians celebrate Territory Day by blowing stuff up, and while extra firefighting resources have been allocated to NT Fire and Rescue Services and Bushfires NT, authorities are reminding people to celebrate Territory Day safely by not starting bushfires or bin fires and avoiding unnecessary emergency room visits.

The explosives will be sold until 9pm this evening, but can only be legally lit-off between 6pm and 11pm on July 1.

NT Fire and Rescue Services were called to 90 fires related to the discharging of fireworks during the legal hours last Territory Day and more than 100 fires the next day.

Many of those fires were bin fires caused by people placing hot fireworks in bins, said Acting Chief Fire Officer Stephen Sewell.

“This is the busiest night of the year for all our firefighters, so let’s work together to make it a safe one,” he said.

“Even with the cold weather in the Central Desert, it’s important not to become complacent with firework safety, especially as dry weather has been forecasted for the Top End.

“Fireworks can be very dangerous and can easily cause unintended fires and cause serious injuries.”

Mr Sewell recommended cleaning out gutters, wet lawns and garden beds and remove rubbish and combustibles from around structures and ensure all fire breaks and mitigation measures are completed before the crackers start flying.

“Never hold fireworks in your hand and always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case things get out of control,” he said. “Avoid setting off fireworks near long grass, dry bush, structures, vehicles or people.”

Authorities said on-the-spot fines could be issued if fireworks are being used in a way that could damage property or harm people or animals.

Fines will also be issued for possession of fireworks after midday on Tuesday, July 2.

St John NT regional manager Ben Minchin said Territory Day was best celebrated safely.

“A good way to celebrate Territory Day is to attend one of the public fireworks displays, but if you are going to let off fireworks, make sure you do it the safest way possible and ensure you look out for one another,” he said.

A list of official Territory Day celebrations across the NT is available here.

Bushfires NT said it was as “prepared as possible” but need “cooperation from residents and visitors”.

“We encourage the public to call 000 to report any fires or emergencies and to report illegal or suspicious activities tot he NT Police on 131 444,” Bushfires NT executive director Coleen Bremner said.

Updates on ongoing fires will be provided on the NT Fire Incident Map, and on Facebook pages for NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services, SecureNT and Bushfires NT.

A full list of where to buy fireworks from registered sellers across the Northern Territory is available here.