Surge in Fireworks Sales Despite Bans

There is a storm in fireworks stores, despite lighting bans

Thursday is the first day that fireworks can be sold in the Netherlands. Although many municipalities have a ban on lighting off this year, fireworks stores are already quite busy.

People can buy or collect fireworks from fireworks stores until Saturday. Ordering fireworks online has been possible since mid-November. “There is quite a lot of enthusiasm, but it is not hectic,” says chairman Leo Groeneveld of the Interest Association Pyrotechniek Netherlands (BPN). He notices that the stores are very busy, especially with people who come to pick up fireworks ordered online.

Lighting Bans and Regulations

There are sixteen places in the Netherlands where a cross-cutting ban applies. In places where there is no fireworks ban, fireworks may only be lit on December 31 between 6:00 PM and 2:00 AM.

Yet there is also something to do in municipalities with a fireworks ban. There is often a fireworks show that the municipality arranges itself. In addition, sparklers, fountains, and popping peas are welcome everywhere. These can be sold all year round.

In any case, the fireworks stores do not seem to be bothered (yet) by the fact that more and more municipalities have a fireworks ban. The crowds at physical points of sale are comparable to the first sales day last year.

Last New Year’s Eve, the fireworks industry achieved a record turnover of 110 million euros. The two New Years before that, turnover was a lot lower. Then there was a national fireworks ban due to corona. The government did not want to further burden hospitals with people who were injured after lighting fireworks, because the hospitals were already full of corona patients.

Public Concerns and Safety Measures

The surge in fireworks sales, despite the bans and regulations, is raising concerns among the public and safety authorities. With the ongoing pandemic, there is an increased focus on preventing additional strain on healthcare facilities. The potential for accidents and injuries related to fireworks during a time when hospitals are already dealing with COVID-19 cases remains a significant worry.

Furthermore, the environmental impact and disturbance caused by fireworks are also factors under scrutiny, prompting discussions about the necessity of private fireworks displays and the potential for community-organized events as safer alternatives.

Authorities and safety advocates are emphasizing the need for responsible fireworks usage and adherence to local regulations to ensure a safe and controlled celebration of the New Year.