Dresden (dpa / sn) – At the turn of the year, the State Criminal Police Office warned against careless handling of pyrotechnics. “Anyone who has not tested fireworks, i.e. without CE marking, not only endangers the health and life of others, but above all themselves,” said the police authority on Tuesday. Even small firecrackers could have a devastating effect because of the mixture of substances they contain. Improper handling could result in complaints and lawsuits, as well as claims for damages.

The police advise only using fireworks that have been tested without a doubt. “Dozens of serious accidents also occur every year as a result of bundling, opening or “cooking” fireworks.” It is essential to refrain from tinkering with pyrotechnics. You should also keep your hands off supposed duds.

“Fireworks do not belong in the hands of children,” warned the police. The minimum age for fireworks in the least dangerous category F1 is 12 years. Everyone should therefore keep a particularly close eye on children. And in principle, fireworks should not be lit on the balcony.

According to the police, 957 crimes related to pyrotechnics were registered in the first eleven months of this year (same period last year: 785). It was about dangerous bodily harm, property damage and criminal offenses against the Explosives Act. Mailboxes and vending machines, for example, are often attacked. Sometimes pyrotechnics are also illegally carried and ignited at football games or demonstrations, it said.