Even before the fireworks initiative: Firecrackers are already banned here

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The time has come: on August 1, the dark evening hours will be colorfully illuminated with fireworks. What is the highlight of a successful party for some pet owners like Corinne Meister (48). The computer scientist keeps chickens, cats and a dog. «My animals think the Böllerei is anything but great.» She therefore supports a popular initiative that wants to ban private fireworks that make noise. So far, the initiators have collected nearly 90,000 signatures.

Some communities already have a ban on fireworks — in whole or in part. It has been banned in the center of Bern since 2021. There is not enough space, the alleys are too narrow, so the reasoning goes. The district is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

positive feedback

“The ban on fireworks was very well received by the citizens. They are grateful that there is now a clear arrangement,” writes Norbert Esseiva, head of Bern’s local and commercial police. “There was a greater sense of security due to the narrow streets of the old town.”

Violations were found only occasionally. “Part of this was done out of ignorance of the ban,” writes Esseiva, including about tourists. If you do shoot in the city center, you have to take into account a fine.

In Davos, the hotels benefit

Fireworks have been banned not only partially, but in the entire municipality of Davos GR since 2020 – the people voted for such a thing. “The decisive factor was the protection of animals and the environment,” recalled media spokesman Samuel Rosenast. “We have a lot of wild and domesticated animals in the mountains. They were shocked by the fireworks and were chased away.”

The experiences of the first three years are positive. “The ban is well received by the population.” According to Rosenast, tourism also benefits. “We have a lot of guests with dogs who go to Davos on August 1 because they know there are no fireworks here.” There are only a few violations, according to the media spokesperson. “Then they get a fine.” Davos doesn’t keep exact statistics either.

Seven hours in Basel

Davos is not alone. In the canton of Graubünden alone, there are 25 municipalities that enforce a fireworks ban, writes Graubünden Tourismus. In addition to Davos, St. Moritz GR or Scuol GR are also included.

The city of Basel, on the other hand, restricts the rules. Fireworks may only be set off in populated areas on three days, July 31, August 1, and December 31, between 6 p.m. and 1 a.m. (brother)

Source:Blick