A tragic incident occurred on New Year’s Eve in Vienna, where a 14-year-old boy lost his hand due to a firecracker explosion. This alarming event unfolded just five minutes before midnight in the district of Favoriten, highlighting the dangers associated with pyrotechnics during celebrations.
Injuries and Emergencies on New Year’s Eve
The night was marked by numerous emergencies attended by firefighters, police, and medical teams. A total of 389 emergency responses were recorded by the Wiener Berufsfeuerwehr, reflecting a busy night filled with incidents related to fireworks and firecrackers.
Serious Injuries Reported
- 14-Year-Old Accident: The most severe case involved a 14-year-old boy who lost his hand due to a firecracker explosion in Favoriten.
- 13-Year-Old Injured: In Hietzing, a 13-year-old suffered partial amputations after a firecracker he found at a playground exploded.
- Tourist Injuries: A 22-year-old tourist was seriously injured in Brigittenau when hit by a firecracker, resulting in facial burns and eye injuries.
- Further Wounds: Another 22-year-old on Kahlenberg reported swallowing part of a firecracker and experienced severe discomfort.
Emergency services treated a multitude of individuals suffering from burns, eye injuries, and hearing problems due to fireworks. The injuries prompted an urgent response, with paramedics stopping bleeding and providing care at the scene.
Police and Legal Actions
In the aftermath, police took significant action, issuing 136 reports and 12 on-site fines under the Pyrotechnics Act. Authorities confiscated 2,342 pyrotechnic items weighing a total of 203 kilograms. Additionally, 14 reports were made concerning property damage caused by the ignition of these items.
The night also witnessed various fires, including three balcony blazes across different districts, all swiftly contained. A notable fire at a fishing hut on the Danube Island required both land and water resources to extinguish.
Summary of Incidents on New Year’s Eve
| Incident | Details |
|---|---|
| 14-Year-Old Boy | Lost hand due to firecracker explosion in Favoriten. |
| 13-Year-Old Child | Hand injuries from a firecracker found on a playground. |
| 22-Year-Old Tourist | Facial injuries from a firecracker in Brigittenau. |
| Accident on Kahlenberg | Man swallowed part of a firecracker. |
| Overall Emergency Responses | Total of 389 calls for the Wiener Berufsfeuerwehr. |
The numerous incidents underscore the need for caution when handling fireworks. As celebrations continue, authorities urge the public to prioritize safety to prevent further tragedies.
