They are explosive materials that can be dangerous to life and health. Let us use fireworks only in places where they will not pose a threat to others or cause a fire.
Let us use firecrackers in accordance with the instructions and remember the basic safety rules:
- let us make sure that firing them at the chosen place and time is permitted,
- when buying fireworks or firecrackers, let us check whether they have the appropriate certifications (the CE Conformité Européenne Certificate—the marking placed on a product is the manufacturer's declaration that the marked product meets the requirements of European Union (EU) directives);
- let us not buy fireworks from random individuals;
- let us check the markings on pyrotechnic products, including: the product name, safety class, manufacturer's name and address, the number of products in the package, and operating instructions in Polish (for amateur displays, let us use only fireworks marked as class I and II, since class III is intended exclusively for professional pyrotechnic displays);
- let us read the operating instructions first and follow them strictly;
- let us not tamper with fireworks;
- let us move at least 10 m away from a lit firework—a firecracker that suddenly explodes can cause not only burns to the hands and face, but also serious bodily injuries, such as loss of eyesight, fingers, or an entire hand;
- when lighting firecrackers, let us anticipate their flight path and landing place;
- let us use pyrotechnic materials only outdoors,
- only adults who are not under the influence of alcohol may light the charges;
- after an unsuccessful attempt, never light them again or throw them into a fire;
- remember that launching fireworks from windows and balconies creates a high probability that they may enter neighbors' apartments and cause fires and injuries to other people;
- the noise of firecrackers disturbs animals—let us ensure that they are not exposed to the sounds of explosions;
- let us not light fireworks near cars, petrol stations, or tanks containing flammable liquids or gases;
- let us use fireworks only in places where they will not pose a threat to others or cause a fire;
- remember that careless handling of pyrotechnic products may result in arrest, a fine, or imprisonment.
Therefore, let us exercise particular prudence and caution and, above all, do not allow children to play with fireworks. If an accident occurs, let us call the emergency services by dialing 112.
When Is Selling and Using Fireworks a Crime?
It is worth adding that selling fireworks or firecrackers to minors is a crime, and anyone who commits such an act is subject to a fine, restriction of liberty, or imprisonment for up to 2 years.
Anyone who carelessly handles explosive, easily flammable, or radioactive substances, or violates regulations concerning the manufacture, sale, storage, use, or transport of such materials, is subject to arrest, a fine, or a reprimand.
In extreme cases, the elements of the crime of exposing a person to the direct danger of loss of life or serious bodily harm, or of creating a direct danger of an event threatening the life or health of many people or property on a large scale, may be present—for which a prison sentence of several years may be imposed.
