Setting off fireworks at the turn of the year

New Year's Eve is celebrated at the turn of the year. On this occasion, rockets and firecrackers are set off again in Erlangen. For this reason, the public order authority would like to point out some legal regulations regarding the setting off of fireworks. And the fire department gives tips on setting off fireworks.

Where and when fireworks may be set off

The setting off of category F2 fireworks is only permitted on December 31 and January 1. They may only be set off by persons of legal age. However, it is forbidden to set off fireworks in the immediate vicinity of

• churches
• hospitals
• children's and old people's homes and
• thatched and half-timbered houses.

For the period from January 2 up to and including December 30, it is not permitted to set off the aforementioned fireworks. It is therefore not permitted to set off leftover rockets or firecrackers after January 2, for example. A violation constitutes an administrative offense and can be fined accordingly.

Irrespective of this legal framework, many people feel disturbed by the setting off of fireworks. Not to mention the disturbance caused to wild animals and pets. The pollution of city centers with particulate matter is also an increasingly controversial issue. The city of Erlangen therefore asks for mutual consideration and compliance with the legal regulations.

Tips for "böllern"

The fire department also provides the following safety tips:

• The instructions for use of the fireworks must be followed carefully, do not tinker with the firecrackers yourself
• Please only use fireworks with official approval from the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM)
• Firecrackers and fireworks may only be set off outdoors, never throw or aim at people
• Never light New Year's Eve rockets and fireworks near buildings such as barns or near roof trusses
• Alcoholized persons should be made aware of the dangers or prevented from lighting fireworks in dangerous proximity to flammable materials or buildings
• The "launching pad" (empty bottles) should be positioned so that the trajectory of the rockets does not lead close to buildings. Lit firecrackers should be thrown away immediately
• "Tests of courage" such as holding the lit firecracker for too long should be avoided at all costs. Pay particular attention to "duds", extinguish glowing remains and dispose of them safely.
• Flammable objects should be removed from balconies and terraces. Doors and windows, especially skylights and hatches, should be carefully closed.

If a fire breaks out despite all precautions, call the fire department on 112.