With New Year's Eve just around the corner, Germany is gearing up for its annual celebration featuring fireworks, but the debate over safety and regulations looms larger than ever. Despite warnings about the risks associated with celebratory fireworks, experts believe injuries will likely remain at high numbers this year.
According to Ameli Gabel-Pfisterer, the lead ophthalmologist at Ernst von Bergmann Klinikum Potsdam, "the best protective measure is not to set off any fireworks at all. But as this isn't the case at the moment, the most sensible thing to do is actually to not leave the house." Each year, thousands celebrate with pyrotechnics, often resulting in injuries not just for those who ignite the fireworks but also innocent bystanders. A significant majority of the victims end up being spectators, with hundreds of individuals affected, particularly by eye-related injuries.
The trend is no different this year, as Gabel-Pfisterer predicts, "Despite all the warnings, this year too, I do not expect the number of injuries to decrease." This dire warning is echoed by various public health officials and local governments urging caution during the holiday festivities.
Starting from December 28, fireworks will be available for purchase across Germany, including regions like Thüringen. Here, the state health minister, Katharina Schenk, also emphasizes the need for enthusiasts to exercise caution. "Most accidents happen due to carelessness and recklessness," she warns, stressing the legal stipulations against homemade pyrotechnics.
While adults can purchase designated fireworks until the last minute of December 31, minors are limited to small sparklers and other minor fireworks, as part of state-wide safety regulations.
Several municipalities have enacted outright firework restrictions, particularly around historical districts and buildings. For example, Thüringen has designated areas where fireworks are banned, such as around churches, hospitals, and residential homes. Local authorities like those of Erfurt and Weimar have laid down specific bans, emphasizing the preservation of historical architecture and public safety.
Erfurt, with its beautiful medieval architecture, is particularly vigilant. The city has prohibited all rocket launches and firecrackers within its historical city's borders. According to regional regulations, residents found violating these local laws could face hefty fines amounting to thousands of euros.
Notably, cities such as Göttingen and Hannover are tightening restrictions even more. After experiencing serious accidents during previous celebrations, Hannover has extended its restrictions on firework use, designifying certain areas as complete no-go zones for pyrotechnics.
The public reaction to these measures is mixed; some argue prohibiting fireworks detracts from the festive atmosphere of New Year's celebrations. Critics often argue, "New Year without fireworks isn't fun," asserting cultural traditions shouldn't be curtailed. But many, including officials and safety advocates, prioritize the need for public health.
With looming restrictions and strict adherence to regulations, many cities also report complaints about misorders and lack of compliance among residents. Some regions have deployed city staff to monitor compliance, though with mixed success.
Overall, the upcoming New Year’s Eve is marked not just by celebration but by conversation about safety, regulation, and the balance between joy and caution. The sentiment this year seems to be: celebrate responsibly and respect the laws, because the price of negligence can be dire.
