Total ban on fires and fireworks announced

It is not unexpected that a total ban on fires and fireworks has been imposed on the canton until Thursday 2 August at least.

What with the ongoing dry hot weather it was thought best to impose this total ban especially at a time when fireworks are usually lit to celebrate Swiss National Day on1 August.

The ban, which has also been imposed on the other central Swiss cantons of Lucerne, Schwyz, Uri, Obwalden and Nidwalden, includes use of all barbecue areas as well as the discarding of cigarette ends and matches outside. Furthermore, sky lanterns should not be lit.

However, the use of gas grills on balconies and gardens is still allowed, though safety precautions should be adhered to. This means users should keep a safe distance, never leave the flames unattended and have extinguishing material to hand.

In assisting the authorities with the ban, Migros has withdrawn all fireworks from sale at its central Swiss stores.

Further announcements about this situation are expected to be made later this week.

While on the matter of fire, members of the Hünenberg and Zug fire brigades attended a fire which started in an electrical panel in a cellar in a house in Sonnhaldenstrasse yesterday afternoon. Fortunately, no-one was injured but considerable damage was caused by smoke.