Safely into the new year: Hamburg is planning firework ban zones!

Safely into the new year: Hamburg is planning firework ban zones!

In Hamburg there are new efforts to specifically regulate the use of fireworks on New Year's Eve. The Volt factions in the Eimsbüttel and Hamburg-Mitte districts are proposing the introduction of fireworks and ban zones. They see an urgent need, given the problems that the turn of the year often brings with it. According to [Eimsbütteler Nachrichten](https://www.eimsbuetteler-nachrichten.de/feuerwerksmodelle-marken-bottom-silvester-volt- petition-eimsbuettel/) the background is clear: the last turn of the year led to a large-scale ban on fireworks in prominent places such as the Binnenalster and the town hall. Such bans are necessary not only for prevention reasons, but also to protect residents and animals, who often suffer from noise pollution and the dangers of New Year's Eve fireworks.

Surveys show that an overwhelming majority of the population, namely 59 percent, would like stricter regulations or even just support professional fireworks displays. The Volt factions argue that fireworks not only cause accidents, but also overload the emergency services. The aim is to make the stressful turn of the year safer in the city by introducing clearly defined fireworks and ban zones.

A well-thought-out regulatory approach

The planned measures are based on current legal principles that regulate the use of New Year's Eve fireworks. Section 23 (2) of the Explosives Ordinance stipulates that the setting off of category F2 fireworks is only permitted on December 31st and January 1st. Fireworks are completely prohibited near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and retirement homes. The Bundesverband Hamburg-Mitte emphasizes that local regulatory authorities have the option to ban or at least restrict the setting off of fireworks in certain locations.

A particular focus of the applications is on creating safe fireworks zones in larger open spaces where fireworks can take place in a regulated and controlled manner. These zones are also intended to ensure that revelers can remain in a safe environment, while at the same time protecting residents and animals from the consequences of pyrotechnic festivities.

Why prohibition zones are important

The concept of prohibition zones has proven to be effective in many cities, as confirmed by the German Association of Cities. Such measures help to avoid dangerous situations in which people have to be checked or emergency services are attacked. They offer additional protection, especially for hospitals, retirement homes and historical buildings. They also help to prevent fires and significantly reduce noise in city centers. In addition, a ban on private fireworks will ensure a noticeable improvement in air quality and reduce particulate matter pollution.

The Eimsbüttel district assembly will vote on the applications this Thursday, and the decision could bring about fundamental changes for the coming year. It remains to be seen how citizens will react to the proposed measures and whether it will actually be possible to create a safer and more pleasant turn of the year.