The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection, the police and the Customs Service remind consumers of the rules for safely purchasing and using fireworks.

On a single New Year’s Eve, we set off more fireworks than throughout the entire year. During this period, several hundred burns, injuries and fires occur across the European Union, as well as even fatal accidents. Most are caused by improper use of fireworks and failure to follow safety rules. 80 percent of victims are men aged 19–50.

The most common injuries are burns and cuts to the head and hands, eye injuries and hearing damage. The Customs Service and the Trade Inspection ensure that pyrotechnic products comply with legal requirements. The former inspects products imported into the EU, stopping goods at the border if they fail to meet the requirements. The Trade Inspection, in turn, continuously checks fireworks available on the market.

Consumer, remember that fireworks are explosive materials and must be used carefully and in accordance with the instructions.

Buying? – check whether:

  • the casing has no mechanical defects (cracks, tears, dents or bulges) and no pyrotechnic mixture is spilling out
  • the component parts are firmly joined together, do not move and do not fall out
  • the fuse is protected by an orange cover or packaging
  • the manufacturer’s name and address details are provided
  • the instructions are written in Polish and contain at least information on how to light the firework and the necessary warnings.

Using them? – remember:

  • make sure that setting off fireworks at the chosen place and time is permitted. In many localities, local regulations restrict the use of pyrotechnic products, for example, allowing it only on New Year’s Eve
  • read the instructions. Strictly follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Pay attention to the warnings
  • keep a safe distance – it is specified in the instructions. Never lean over the charge – stand to the side and hold the ignition source at arm’s length
  • choose a place where, when using fireworks, you will not injure anyone or damage anything. Check that there are no trees or power lines in the path of the charge
  • report the sale of pyrotechnic products to minors, the unsafe use of fireworks or disturbances of public order to the police
  • if an accident has occurred, call the emergency services: the fire brigade or an ambulance.

UOKiK/KGP/ii