Netherlands warn: Firecracker attacks in Germany are increasing!

Netherlands warn: Firecracker attacks in Germany are increasing!

In the last few days, worrying news has been making the rounds: The Netherlands is warning Germany of an increasing threat from firecracker attacks. According to reports from the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung and the Dutch broadcaster RTL Nieuws, Germany is an important location for the production of explosive devices from fireworks used to blow up banks and ATMs. Seven dealers were identified in the border area who continue to trade pyrotechnics in Germany despite previous convictions in the Netherlands.

“There is something going on,” said Rotterdam police chief Koksulu, referring to the significantly increased threat from the use of illegal fireworks. Last year, the Netherlands recorded around 1,100 explosive attacks, several of which were fatal. In order to contain this explosive situation, cooperation in Europe is essential.

Safety when using fireworks

But what does this mean for the safe handling of fireworks? The real dangers are by no means limited to criminal acts. Even when using fireworks normally, serious injuries often occur. The police warns of the risks that can arise particularly from improper use, the influence of alcohol and the use of illegal pyrotechnics. Every year around three tons of illegal fireworks are confiscated and destroyed in Austria.

In fact, around 80 percent of the fireworks items used are of Asian origin, many made manually and therefore potentially prone to errors. “Even imported firecrackers can contain contaminated chemicals,” warn the experts. Regular accidents often happen in connection with alcohol and homemade fireworks. Therefore, anyone planning to set off fireworks should exercise particular caution and carefully follow the instructions for use.

Dealing with injury cases

A current analysis of the Federal Pyrotechnics Association shows that, especially on New Year's Eve, the hospitalization rate for fireworks injuries varies between 2.3 and 3.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Despite the strong discussion about the safety of fireworks, apart from preventive measures against illegal products, social factors such as excessive alcohol consumption are also responsible for the numerous accidents. “Illegal and home-made fireworks are the real danger,” says the association. A sales ban is criticized as symbolic politics; Instead, the association calls for a well-founded risk analysis.

With this information at hand, anyone who wants to use fireworks should not only rely on the established laws, but also take responsibility for their own safety and that of those around them. A good knack for using pyrotechnics can help prevent accidents and injuries.