Two days after the explosion of a fireworks factory in Mosta, National Security Minister Byron Camilleri said that the precautions which were taken in the past few years led to less accidents and to reduce the dangers associated with the practice. 

Camilleri was responding to a parliamentary question tabled in parliament, going on to say that he is glad to hear such practitioners say that accidents which involve injuries have reduced. 

Camilleri said that the authorities, especially the Police Corps, Civil Protection Units and the Armed Forces of Malta, responded with immense efficacy to the explosion. Despite the danger, the officials were the first to arrive on the scene and made sure that everyone was safe. 

A drone was used to surveil the area to check for any other potential hazards after the area was cleared of any persons who might have gotten injured. He also made reference to the dog which was rescued by the corps. The dog was tied to a metal pole and was subsequently rescued after the area was cleared. 

Speaking to TVM News, pyrotechnic expert Servolo Delicata remarked how dangers related to fireworks increase when the summer period rolls around. Not commenting specifically on the incident in Mosta due to there still being an inquiry, he went on to discuss more general topics related to the practice. 

He said that Maltese pyrotechnical experts have a license which is only achieved after courses and exams, with the license having to be renewed every 5 years through a similar course. 

He highlighted that, to avoid accidents, focus needs to be put on winds, air temperatures and humidity. These three factors impact the chemicals used in fireworks. He also pointed out that in Malta there are around 36 fireworks factories, all filled with tonnes of explosive material which requires constant surveillance and care. 

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