Antwerp bans private fireworks for safety

The city of Antwerp has banned the possession and use of fireworks in public places over the next three months. In normal circumstances, setting off fireworks and firecrackers, as well as lighting fires, are banned in public places at all times. The new Antwerp regulation goes further, banning the visible possession and display of fireworks of any sort. Also outlawed is the exhibiting or selling of fireworks, regardless of whether they are to be used legally or taken out of Antwerp.

The city said its intention with the measure was to improve safety during the end-of-year period, as well as to respond to the many complaints received at the end of last year. The law means that no private fireworks can be used on New Year's Eve, unless authorisation is obtained in writing by application to the council six weeks in advance. The traditional public display of fireworks over the Scheldt will go ahead at midnight as usual.