Tips for a safe fireworks display for August 1

In Switzerland, fireworks are divided into four categories with different hazard potentials. Anyone setting off fireworks should be instructed by sales personnel at the time of purchase and read the instructions for use. Home-made fireworks repeatedly lead to accidents. For this reason, it is generally not advisable to make fireworks yourself.

So impressive Fireworks are, that's how dangerous they can be. Even the ignition temperature of a sparkler reaches over 400 degrees Celsius. The cause of accidents is mainly careless and negligent behavior. To avoid fires or injuries, the following recommendations should be observed.

General precautions when handling fireworks

• When buying fireworks, have the handling of the individual fireworks explained to you. Read the instructions for use and follow them.
• Provide water for extinguishing and cooling Burns ready
• Depending on the size of the firework, a safety distance of 40 to 200 meters from buildings, crop fields or forest edges is required. The burning of fireworks in the immediate vicinity of people is prohibited.
• Close roof hatches, windows and doors on festive days.
• Matches, lighters and fireworks do not belong in the hands of small children. Explain the proper use of fireworks to children in an age-appropriate manner and supervise them.
• If a firework does not burn, do not approach it for at least ten minutes. Douse the dud with water. Attempts to re-ignite are dangerous.
• Rockets are to be fired from a well-anchored bottle or tube. The rocket stick must not be stuck into the ground.
• Tinkering with fireworks and own creations are to be refrained from.
• Never smoke near fireworks.
• Be sure to observe any fire bans issued by the authorities. A nationwide overview is available on the website of the Federal Office for the Environment available.

Sources:

Swiss Council for Accident Prevention, bfu

Fire Prevention Advisory Board, BfB

SUVA