Tips from the Bocholt fire brigade for a safe New Year's Eve

The old year goes, the new one comes: many celebrate this with a big New Year's Eve fireworks display. The Bocholt fire brigade gives tips to ensure that the turn of the year is accident-free.

Unfortunately, accidents happen again and again or fires suddenly break out. "Minors in particular are fascinated by fireworks. Adults should therefore talk to their children in advance about the dangers", advises the fire brigade.

Only use tested fireworks

Fountains, firecrackers and rockets can be purchased from 28 to 31 December this year. It is important to ensure that only tested fireworks are purchased. Approved fireworks are labelled with a CE mark and a registration number from the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM). The use of home-made or illegally procured fireworks is dangerous and punishable by law. The same applies to opening or modifying fireworks.

Category F1 fireworks include firecrackers, firecracker hits, firecracker devils and silver rain. These may be sold to young people under the age of 18.

Firework products in category F2, which also include New Year's Eve rockets, firework batteries, bangers and fountains, may only be purchased and used by persons over the age of 18.

The manufacturer's instructions for use must be observed. It is essential to read the instructions for use before lighting fireworks. Only set off fireworks where this is permitted. It is forbidden to set off fireworks in the immediate vicinity of churches, hospitals, children's homes and old people's homes. This ban also applies to half-timbered and thatched houses.

Once lit, it is important to keep a safe distance. Do not throw fireworks and rockets away blindly and never aim them at people or animals.

Never hold New Year's Eve firecrackers in your hand for longer than necessary. Very serious injuries can occur if firecrackers or rockets explode in the hand. Rockets must stand securely for launching. Good launching pads are empty bottles in a sturdy drinks crate.

Fireworks should not be carried on the body, e.g. in jacket or trouser pockets. The home should be protected from fire hazards on New Year's Eve. It is best to remove furniture, household items and other flammable objects from balconies and terraces. Keep windows and doors closed as long as there are bangs and hisses outside.

In the event of a fire or accident, call 112 immediately.

The setting off of fireworks is only permitted on 31 December 2024 and 1 January 2025.

The city administration of Bocholt wishes all citizens a happy New Year's Eve, free of accidents.