The nation has ordered an immediate, comprehensive safety overhaul of fireworks sales after two recent explosions revealed safety risks of the popular holiday activity.

The Office of the State Council Work Safety Committee called in a notice for strengthening oversight of the entire supply chain, particularly the sales and discharge of fireworks, to curb the recent uptick in fireworks accidents.

The move comes after two deadly accidents in Jiangsu and Hubei provinces, which underscored the risks tied to fireworks, a staple during the Spring Festival holiday but also a source of safety concerns.

Specific measures of the tighter supervision include a ban on a series of hazardous practices, such as mixed-use residential zoning, in which fireworks are sold on the first floor of residential buildings.

Excessive stockpiling, trial ignitions within 100 metres of retail points, and the discharge of fireworks in no-fire zones or densely populated areas are also prohibited.

The office and the Ministry of Emergency Management have dispatched inspection teams to key regions to conduct checks, in an attempt to press local authorities to assume responsibility for safety. (Xinhua)



Edited by Aaron Tam