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Welcoming the Spring with the Golden Snake: Firecracker and Firework Safety is Essential for a Happy New Year

During the Lunar New Year holiday, setting off firecrackers and fireworks is a traditional Chinese custom that symbolizes the festive spirit of bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new. However, as firecrackers and fireworks contain gunpowder, improper handling can easily lead to fires caused by sparks coming into contact with flammable materials. There have also been incidents of children getting injured while playing with firecrackers. Moreover, the process generates noise, air pollution, and harmful gases that may pose risks to human health.


The Taipei City Fire Department urges the public to consider using electronic firecracker sound effects as a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative. This not only enhances the festive atmosphere but also ensures the safety of those around and contributes to carbon reduction efforts.


The Taipei City Fire Department emphasizes that when using firecrackers or fireworks, it is essential to purchase certified products and strictly follow the instructions on the packaging, including details on the "type of firework," "operating instructions," and "safety distance." Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000. For instance, aerial fireworks such as skyrockets require a safety distance of at least 10 meters, while ascending fireworks must maintain a minimum distance of 20 meters.


Furthermore, the use of firecrackers and fireworks is strictly prohibited in areas specified by the " Fireworks Management Act " and the "Taipei City Firecracker and Firework Use Control Guidelines." Restricted locations include gas stations, LPG stores, highways, mass transit systems, elevated roads, historical sites, hospitals, nursing homes, postpartum care centers, and elderly care facilities. Violators may face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$300,000.


To ensure a safe year and to minimize the risks associated with firecracker use, The Taipei City Fire Department reminds the public to observe the following safety guidelines:


•  Only purchase fireworks with clear labeling and certification.

•  Follow the instructions on the label carefully. For aerial and flying-type fireworks, ensure they are securely anchored and fired vertically into the air.

•  Set off fireworks in open spaces and avoid leaning over the fireworks or observing closely during ignition.

•  Do not aim fireworks at people, buildings, or flammable materials.

•  Avoid linking or stacking multiple fireworks together for simultaneous ignition.

•  Children under 12 years old should only set off fireworks under the supervision of a parent or guardian.


Additionally, to ensure the safety of children setting off fireworks, Taipei City Fire Department reminds parents that those with children under 12 years old will be fined up to NT$15,000 if the child is not accompanied by an adult. Fireworks such as aerial, flying, and firecrackers are prohibited for children to set off. Vendors who sell these types of fireworks to children will face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000.


In conclusion, Taipei City Fire Department urges all citizens to refrain from setting off fireworks randomly to maintain public safety and peace during the New Year festivities in Taipei. Consider using firecracker sound effects to safely celebrate (you can scan the festive sound effect card to download, or visit Taipei City Fire Department website [https://reurl.cc/M6MK14] or the Ministry of the Interior Fire Agency website [https://reurl.cc/A42YaQ] for downloads). Wishing everyone a happy New Year and a prosperous year of the snake!