We must enjoy the fireworks tradition this year, but safely and with respect for emergency workers. Jolanda Trijselaar, chairman of the Netherlands Fire Department, makes this call.
The fire brigade will be ready again during New Year’s Eve to prevent and combat unpleasant situations, says Trijselaar. At the same time, she expresses her frustration about the violence and aggression that aid workers have to deal with every year. For example, these emergency workers are regularly pelted with fireworks.
But even before New Year’s Eve things went wrong. On Christmas Eve, police officers and a police car were pelted by three young people around Verdiplein in Tilburg. The officers were there after several reports of fireworks nuisance. The three suspects were banned from entering the area until after New Year’s Eve and must report to the HALT Bureau.
Last time cutting off yourself
The coming New Year’s Eve is extra special, because it is the last time that consumers are allowed to light fireworks themselves. “For many people, that is a tradition that they will miss, and that can be said,” says Trijselaar. “At the same time, the fireworks ban from 2026 is an important step towards a safer society, with less injury, less damage and less aggression against emergency workers.”
That is why she calls on everyone to do well together this year. “Celebrate, enjoy the tradition, but do it safely and with respect for each other and for our care providers.”