Polish Ombudsman Marcin Wiącek urges ministers to address problems with fireworks including injuries, fires, noise pollution, and environmental harm.
RPO Identifies Multiple Problems with Fireworks
Professor Marcin Wiącek has turned to the Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration and the Minister of Health with a request to take a position on the problems associated with the use of fireworks. According to the RPO, there are many such problems.
This initiative is a result of requests from citizens and non-governmental organizations that point to the negative consequences of using pyrotechnic products. Among these, notes Professor Wiącek, are frequent bodily injuries both to those who directly set them off and to bystanders.
Injuries and Fires from Fireworks
Statistical data shows that the most common injuries in this area are injuries to the upper limbs and eye burns, with children and youth often being victims. Moreover, the use of fireworks also causes numerous fires.
On New Year’s Eve 2024/2025, firefighters intervened in 1200 fire-related incidents, which was a much higher number compared to the last three years. A year later, there were as many as 1536 such interventions.
Noise Pollution Affecting Vulnerable Groups
The use of pyrotechnic products is also associated with noise and flashes that harm health and can endanger life. This problem primarily affects adults and children with autism, people with epilepsy, and others sensitive to noise, including young children.
Environmental Impact of Fireworks
The emission of many harmful substances into the atmosphere is another problem associated with fireworks. According to research, approximately 12.5 tons of magnesium, 0.8 tons of titanium, 1.2 tons of rubidium, 10.5 tons of barium, one ton of strontium, and about 0.5 tons of copper are released annually from their use.
Fireworks Used Despite Prohibitions
The common use of fireworks on New Year’s Eve means they are often set off in places where it is prohibited, such as in the Tatra National Park over Morskie Oko. This has a negative impact on citizens’ safety, which is the obligation of the state under the Constitution.
Legal Gaps and Regulatory Solutions
The issue is not fully regulated by Polish law, as current penalties for disturbances caused by fireworks are considered insufficient. Prosecuting such offenses is difficult, and authorities often don’t intervene, especially on New Year’s Eve.
While against a complete ban, which would excessively restrict individual freedoms, the RPO proposes that local government units be given the authority to prohibit or restrict fireworks use in specific areas through legislative action.
