Sparkler Use At Indoor Public Gatherings To Be Banned In Malta

A new law banning the use of sparklers and other pyrotechnic articles at indoor public gatherings will come into effect in two months.

Times of Malta reported that legislation was introduced through a legal notice and prohibits the use of pyrotechnic items in indoor spaces accessible to the public, including venues such as clubs and discotheques.

Those found breaching the law will face fines ranging between €120 and €350.

The measure follows a fatal fire at a bar in Switzerland on New Year’s Eve, which claimed the lives of 40 people and left 116 others injured.

he blaze was caused after champagne bottles fitted with sparklers were raised too close to sound-insulation foam on the ceiling of the venue’s basement area.

Home Affairs Minister Glenn Bedingfield told ToM the new legislation was introduced in response to the Swiss tragedy. He said discussions had taken place both internally and publicly about the necessary action following the incident.

The Minister clarified that the ban applies specifically to indoor public spaces, meaning sparklers can still be used in private homes.

#MaltaDaily