Fireworks are disrupting neighbourhoods almost every night, both inside and outside stadiums, at weddings and various parties, and are used by both adults and minors. The use of fireworks, especially by children, is increasingly concerning due to the risks posed to both people and the environment.
Recently, it was reported that two minors, aged 12 and 13, allegedly caused a fire in Trimiklini by playing with fireworks. This fire burned approximately 1.5 square kilometres of wild vegetation and affected some cultivated areas. In the presence of their parents, the two minors reportedly admitted to using fireworks, which likely sparked the fire.
There is much to be said about minors causing such fires, and even more about the adults who bear significant responsibility for fires ignited by fireworks.
Negligence and a disregard for environmental importance contribute to this issue. Although a fire in Paphos led to a temporary ban on fireworks, the prohibition lasted only two weeks. It seems some individuals cannot celebrate without fireworks, regardless of the potential consequences.
With current high temperatures and frequent yellow and red weather warnings, the uncontrolled use of fireworks is particularly dangerous.
Measures must be taken, at least during the summer months, to prevent the use of fireworks near forests, wild vegetation, and agricultural areas.
We hope that the Trimiklini incident, not the first this year, will lead to stricter and more rigorous measures. The current weather conditions, with high temperatures and drought, create a perilous situation.
Therefore, human actions should not contribute to the outbreak of fires. Human negligence and reckless behaviour do not help. Since we are experiencing these phenomena, and until there is a change in mindset, preventive measures must be significantly strengthened. These measures should be implemented immediately, as we face a difficult and harsh, hot summer that may last a long time.
