Genk (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Carma police warn about dangerous fireworks debris. Steve Michiels says fireworks can reignite. Fireworks are banned, except in Genk from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Animal shelters report 5–10 lost pets yearly.
As VRT News reported, the Carma police zone, As, a municipality in the province of Limburg, Belgium, warns residents to handle fireworks debris with care. They mentioned that even after fireworks have exploded, some pieces can stay hot and catch fire again.
This can cause serious injuries or start a fire. Emergency services often respond to accidents caused by leftover fireworks. In some cases, arrows or rockets have landed on garden sheds or dry plants, starting fires.
“The fireworks often have two distinct chambers. A slight movement can cause the fireworks to explode further or burn out,”
says Steve Michiels of the Carma police zone (As, Bocholt, Bree, Genk, Houthalen-Helchteren, Kinrooi, Oudsbergen & Zutendaal).
What do residents need to know about fireworks safety and the Carma ban?
Authorities say fireworks debris should never be touched with bare hands. Residents should pour water over used fireworks or use a fire extinguisher. It is also important to check the area for sparks or fragments that could ignite flammable objects. Only when debris is fully cooled and safe should it be collected and thrown away.
The Carma police zone has banned fireworks in all its municipalities. Police spokesperson Michiels said the ban is strict. Only Genk has an exception. In Genk, residents can use fireworks between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m.
Animal shelters are preparing for New Year’s Eve. The Sint-Truiden animal shelter receives between 5 and 10 calls each year about lost or frightened pets. Shelters advise owners to help protect their animals. They recommend keeping dogs and cats indoors and giving them a quiet, safe space.
Firework safety in the Carma Police district has been of major concern for many years. Every New Year’s Eve, Emergency Services receive numerous calls regarding fires, accidents and injuries caused by fireworks. The animal shelters also receive calls regarding lost or frightened animals after New Year’s Eve. In 2023, several communities imposed temporary bans on fireworks due to the fires caused by fireworks in gardens and sheds.
