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Fireworks without consequences: how and where can I safely set off fireworks for the New Year
For many Russians, fireworks are an important symbol of the New Year and the culmination of a festive night. Analysts note that fireworks are perceived as a family tradition associated with joy and nostalgia for childhood. However, an incorrect launch of pyrotechnics can result not only in a ruined holiday, but also in a large fine, and in some cases, criminal liability. Where it is allowed to launch fireworks, what requirements of the law it is important to observe and how to act in an emergency situation — in the Izvestia material.
Why do Russians launch fireworks on New Year's Eve
According to the analytical center Sidorin Lab (SL), fireworks remain an established symbol of the New Year and an important element of the festive tradition for Russians. As part of the monitoring of discussions on the topic "holiday/ tradition/ atmosphere", analysts recorded 10,442 messages (engagement — 30 thousand, views — 391 thousand).
At the same time, users positively discuss not only city fireworks, but also independent fireworks launches on New Year's Eve as a family ritual and the culmination of the holiday. Women are more likely to comment on the topic online (67%). Moscow (635) and St. Petersburg (418) are the leaders in geography, followed by Chelyabinsk (130), Yekaterinburg (96), Novosibirsk (74). In messages, fireworks are most often associated with joy, family traditions and nostalgia for childhood.
However, it is this "home" launch format — in courtyards, near entrances, in parking lots — that most often falls into the zone of legal risks. Practice shows that where fireworks are perceived as part of a celebration, fire safety requirements are often perceived as a formality. However, they become the basis for fines and administrative proceedings.
Where you can and can't set off fireworks
Vitaly Boyko, an expert on fire safety, emphasizes that the rules of the fire regime remain the key guideline in choosing the launch site.
— In cities, fireworks are allowed only at specially designated sites, which are coordinated with local authorities. As a rule, such zones are located on the outskirts of populated areas, away from residential buildings, social facilities, power lines and forests. Information about permitted places is usually published by administrations and the Ministry of Emergency Situations on the eve of holidays," he explained.
At the same time, there is a wide list of places where fireworks are strictly prohibited.
— It is forbidden to launch fireworks in the courtyards of residential buildings, on playgrounds and sports grounds, in parks, on streets, squares, as well as balconies, loggias and roofs of buildings. The launch of pyrotechnics in the premises is prohibited, with the exception of sparklers and firecrackers belonging to the least dangerous class. The ban also applies to schools, kindergartens, hospitals and other social facilities," the expert said.
It is important to pay special attention to the purchase of pyrotechnics.
— According to the current rules, these products cannot be sold to persons under the age of 18. It is recommended to buy fireworks only in certified stores: products must have instructions in Russian, an indication of the hazard class, expiration date and certificate of conformity," the specialist reminded.
What are the penalties for violating the rules?
Administrative liability is provided for violation of fire safety requirements under Article 20.4 of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation. For citizens, the fine ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles, for officials — from 20,000 to 30,000 rubles, for legal entities — from 300,000 to 400,000 rubles, Vitaly Boyko emphasized.
In more severe cases, liability may be criminal.
— If health is harmed, property is destroyed, or, moreover, people die as a result of launching fireworks, criminal liability ensues. Moreover, this does not exclude civil claims for damages, which can amount to very large amounts," the expert explained.
Which fireworks can be used without special permissions
Pyrotechnic household items belonging to classes I, II and III can be used without special permits, said Elena Vecherina, a member of the coordinating council of the RAPID Fireworks Russian Pyrotechnic Association.
— Before going on sale, such pyrotechnics undergo a multi-stage certification, therefore they are designed for use by ordinary people. However, it should be borne in mind that even household products are safe only if they strictly follow the instructions that are indicated on each product," she noted.
Household pyrotechnics include sparklers and firecrackers (Class I): their danger zone is usually no more than 0.5 m. Class II is small products like pyrotechnic fountains: they are more often relatively silent and suitable for use in the yard — the radius of the danger zone is no more than 5 m. Class III is "full—fledged" fireworks with a danger zone of no more than 30 m. This includes most popular products, including fireworks batteries, rockets and Roman candles, the expert explained.
There are also pyrotechnics for technical purposes belonging to classes IV and V.
— Here we are talking about a professional level: knowledge and devices are required for work, therefore, a special license is needed for purchase and use, — Vecherina explained.
How to safely launch fireworks
Experts from the Ministry of Emergency Situations and the pyrotechnic industry advise preparing the site in advance: remove flammable objects, make sure there are no trees or buildings nearby, and securely fix the product on a flat surface. The use of pyrotechnics in high winds is prohibited, as the charge can change its trajectory and cause a fire.
— The force of the wind can blow the fireworks in a completely different direction, which is fraught with fire. We must remember that fire safety is the personal responsibility of every person," Vitaly Boyko reminded.
What to do if the fireworks didn't work?
If the firework has misfired, the main rule is not to approach it immediately. Fire safety expert Vitaly Boyko emphasizes that in such cases there is a risk of a delayed shot, so people should be taken to a safe distance and wait at least 10-15 minutes.
— If the salute did not work or did not work correctly, you can not immediately approach and check it. We need to wait a while to prevent spontaneous triggering, and then fill the product with water and do not use it anymore," he said.
Elena Vecherina adds that it is strictly forbidden to try to light the wick again or bend over the body of the product.
— Even if it seems that the fireworks have gone out, a delayed shot is possible. Repeated ignition is especially dangerous: the charges can go off without delay and get into the face or hands," the expert explained.
After holding the time, the product should be completely neutralized — put in water for several hours or thoroughly poured with water, you can cover it with snow. If there is a fire threat, experts advise immediately calling emergency services on 101 or 112 and, if possible, using improvised extinguishing means without risking their own safety.
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