In the Netherlands, there is a tradition of setting off fireworks en masse on New Year's Eve. Each year, from December 28th to December 31st, it is permitted for individuals aged 18 and older to purchase fireworks from specially designated stores. The rest of the year, it is prohibited to possess or set off fireworks, but on New Year's Eve, it becomes a spectacle reminiscent of the movie "The Purge."

As a child, I too was fascinated by fireworks; there was something magical about doing something that wasn't allowed, although it was permitted on December 31st from 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 at night. However, we started a week earlier; we engaged in a significant trade of illegal fireworks, a practice that continues to this day.

The subsequent years only worsened the situation; German fireworks sounded like bombs and were entirely unsuitable for busy urban areas. The Dutch government decided to modify some rules; now, fireworks that only produce loud bangs are banned, and essentially, only display fireworks are allowed, which can also make some noise.

Fireworks rockets are prohibited, as are Roman candles, but multi-shot cakes weighing a few kilograms are allowed, which are more explosive and larger than fireworks rockets. These regulations have exacerbated the illegal explosive fireworks situation, creating an atmosphere resembling a war zone with extremely loud explosions. These are essentially bombs, and criminals use them for various illegal activities, contributing to fatalities.

As a result, there is a growing movement to completely ban fireworks, not only due to the stress it causes for animals but also for many people. Advocates suggest organized fireworks displays by the municipality, similar to those in Sydney, London, and New York. Some cities, like Rotterdam, have already implemented this, even though consumers still set off fireworks.

The current challenge is that if you ban fireworks for consumers, those using illegal explosive fireworks are not likely to disappear, causing the most disturbances. Nevertheless, in my opinion, we should transition towards centrally organized fireworks shows by the city and gradually phase out consumer fireworks.

The damage, particularly caused by illegal fireworks, amounts to tens of millions of euros every year, and the numerous severe injuries are alarming. Doctors, in any case, advocate for a ban.