The Brașov City Hall has decided to give up fireworks on New Year’s Eve and announces that they will be replaced with laser shows.
Mayor George Scripcaru made this decision taking into account studies showing that fireworks cause severe stress, panic, hearing loss, injuries, and even death to animals. The mayor urges citizens to avoid purchasing these pyrotechnic materials.
According to the Brașov City Hall, every year during the winter holidays, animals - whether pets or wild, from inside or near the city - are traumatized by the noise from fireworks. Often, in the case of pets, especially dogs and cats, the owners of these animals face situations where they run away, out of fear, from their leash or the owners' yard.
Animals are terrified of firecrackers and fireworks
"We all love pets, whether we have a dog, a cat, or a canary at home, or just see them at friends' or relatives'. Unfortunately, every end of the year is a real nightmare for these animals, especially on New Year's Eve, when dozens and hundreds of fireworks explode throughout the city.
Those of us who have a pet at home know that we have to take all measures so that, out of fear, they do not run away and get lost. We increasingly hear how the morning of the new year is just a search for recovering the lost dog or cat due to fireworks," said Mayor George Scripcaru.
"I hope that our example will be followed by more and more residents of Brașov, and the night between the years will be an occasion for joy not only for us but also for our pets," he added.
According to authorities, studies show that fireworks have serious negative effects on pets and wildlife, including severe stress, panic, hearing loss, injuries, and even death.
Loud noises and flashing lights can make them run away, get lost, or get injured, while the chemicals in fireworks pollute the environment.
What the law says
In addition, fireworks create environmental problems: the chemicals used pollute the air and water, affecting the entire ecosystem, according to Brașov authorities.
The updated legislation prohibits the purchase and use of most pyrotechnic articles by the general public, including for New Year's Eve, except for those in class I (such as sparklers and cake candles) which are allowed throughout the year, provided they are used only outdoors and following the instructions on the packaging.
According to the law, individuals cannot buy, possess, or use articles from higher classes (II-IV) or from class I such as firecrackers, poppers, and "flying luminous objects." According to the law, only specialized companies have the right to organize pyrotechnic shows for New Year's Eve.