Civil Defense issues fireworks safety guidelines ahead of New Year celebrations

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Civil Defense Directorate issued safety recommendations regarding the use of fireworks ahead of upcoming New Year celebrations, warning against their use near sensitive and populated areas.

The directorate stated that fireworks cause both noise and environmental pollution due to emitted gases and smoke and can trigger fear among children and distress among the elderly and people with special needs.

Fireworks are strictly prohibited near hospitals, fuel stations, gas cylinder distribution points, electric generators, fuel tankers, trees, palm groves, residential homes, markets, and commercial storage areas.

Authorities emphasized that children must not handle fireworks under any circumstances.

The directorate also banned launching fireworks horizontally or directly toward people or property, as well as using large-sized fireworks, which can cause burns, eye injuries, finger amputations, and permanent hand disfigurement. Fireworks should not be set off in closed or crowded spaces, or inside homes, particularly near flammable materials such as fuel products or gas cylinders.

The crackdown follows a spike in holiday injuries last year. On Jan. 1, 2025, Iraq’s Ministry of Health reported 564 injuries during New Year’s celebrations nationwide, including 143 caused by fireworks and 40 by stray gunfire. The remaining cases were linked to traffic accidents and other incidents. No fatalities were recorded, but several injuries were considered critical.

The Baghdad Operations Command said Thursday it will not allow the excessive use of fireworks, citing harm and disturbance to residents as well as risks to public safety and property.