Fireworks sales start today: Safely into the new year with control!

Fireworks sales start today: Safely into the new year with control!

On December 29, 2025 the time has finally come: the sale of fireworks for the upcoming New Year's Eve has begun in many stores. How Radio Westfalica reports, customers are already lining up to secure the best firecrackers and rockets for the turn of the year. The excitement in the region is palpable as people are determined to say goodbye to the old year and loudly welcome the new one.

The trade association assumes that millions of euros will be spent on private fireworks displays in the region. But it's not just the anticipation of beautiful lighting effects that is great; Safety precautions should not be neglected either. The district government has announced that it will carry out checks to ensure that only certified fireworks are sold. These controls also include the proper storage of fireworks.

Safety first

During this time of fireworks sales, Bielefeld customs urgently warns against unsafe products, especially from neighboring countries or from the Internet, which often do not meet German safety standards. Of particular concern are the more than seven tons of dangerous pyrotechnics that were seized during customs checks and in parcel shipments last year. How the customs reports, almost 1.4 tonnes of non-compliant fireworks have already been seized this year.

A careful eye is required because fireworks products that do not have the necessary CE mark are illegal according to the Explosives Act. In this way, customs wants to ensure that people not only enjoy the colorful lights, but also stay safe. Florian Thürmer from the main customs office in Dresden warned against firecrackers without a clear origin: “Using untested products can lead to serious injuries such as burns or even the loss of limbs.”

Legal basis and regulations

The regulation of fireworks falls under several areas of law, including dangerous goods, environmental and regulatory law. The most important law in this context is the Explosives Act, which implements EU directives into national law. In Germany, every firework must be tested and labeled accordingly in order to be commercially available. The BVPK provides comprehensive information on the legal framework so that both retailers and consumers are informed.

What does a good hand look like when buying fireworks? It means paying attention to the correct labeling, buying from trusted dealers and increasing your own safety awareness. After all, the turn of the year should not only be celebrated festively, but also safely. So let’s toast – safely!