Swiss Bar’s Bottle Fireworks Display Sparks Safety Concerns After Deadly Crans-Montana Fire
A St. Gallen bar’s recent celebration featuring bottle fireworks and spray candles has ignited a debate over the safety of pyrotechnics in indoor venues, particularly in light of the tragic New Year’s Eve fire in Crans-Montana that claimed at least 40 lives. Videos circulating on Instagram show patrons of the Metzgertor bar dancing with the potentially hazardous items in hand, prompting questions about risk and responsibility.
Echoes of Crans-Montana
The scenes from the Metzgertor bar bear a striking resemblance to the spray candles identified as the source of the devastating fire in Crans-Montana. The blaze, which erupted on December 31st, resulted in the deaths of 40 people and immediately spurred calls for stricter regulations regarding indoor pyrotechnics. Since the disaster, several Swiss cantons – including Valais, Geneva, and Vaud – have implemented bans on fireworks within public buildings.
Legal Gray Area and Industry Response
Currently, the use of pyrotechnics in bars is not explicitly prohibited in the canton of St. Gallen. However, the Swiss Bar and Club Commission (SBCK) has issued a strong recommendation that its members refrain from allowing indoor fireworks displays. “Not just for security reasons, but as a sign of respect for the victims,” an SBCK spokesperson stated. Nachtgallen, the catering association to which Metzgertor belongs, is also a member of the SBCK, yet has refrained from issuing any official guidance on the matter.
The Metzgertor bar’s managing director declined to comment on the incident when contacted by “Tagblatt,” the publication that first reported the story. The association has also remained cautious, choosing not to offer any reviews or recommendations regarding the use of fireworks.
Public Sentiment and Calls for Action
An Instagram video showcasing the celebration at Metzgertor has further fueled the discussion. The incident underscores the tension between celebratory practices and public safety, particularly given the recent tragedy. The question of whether a complete ban on indoor pyrotechnics is necessary is gaining momentum, with advocates arguing that the risk of another catastrophic event outweighs the entertainment value.
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The lack of a clear legal framework in some cantons, combined with the cautious response from industry associations, highlights the need for a comprehensive review of safety regulations surrounding pyrotechnics in public spaces. The memory of the Crans-Montana fire serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of inaction.
