Fire Chief Christopher Coleman is offering a safety warning with local establishments following a fatal fire at a Swiss Alpine bar during a New Year’s Eve celebration.
Swiss investigators believe that sparkling candles atop champagne bottles ignited interior finishes near the ceiling of the bar, resulting in a fire that left 40 people dead and over 100 injured.
Under Massachusetts General Law, sparklers and other pyrotechnic devices, including so-called “cold spark” pyrotechnics, are illegal for possession, sale, and use in Massachusetts without professional licensing, certification and permitting. The use of these devices in a restaurant, bar, or nightclub also violates the Fire Safety Code. Under no circumstances should they be used as decorations, party favors, or any other form of entertainment in such venues.
Any business that possesses these devices should immediately contact the North Attleborough Fire Department at 508-699-0140 Ext. 5620 to arrange safe and legal disposal. Do not attempt to dispose of these devices.
“The safety of our community members is of utmost concern, and we rely on local establishments complying with our laws and the Fire Safety Code to prevent any similar tragedies from occurring,” Coleman said. “Any business found to be using these devices will be subjected to cease-and-desist and further action if the illegal use of these devices continues.”
The Fire Department is committed to ensuring that local businesses and patrons are aware of the dangers associated with these devices. The department will continue to conduct annual inspections and enforce relevant codes.