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Photo Credit: Wikipedia Creative Commons License  Crans Montana été (PHOTO-GENIC.CH/ OLIVIER MAIRE)  Date: 11 August 2011, 08:27:59  Author: Crans-Montana-Communication
16 Jan 2026

Swiss cantons move to ban indoor pyrotechnics after deadly ski‑resort fire

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Swiss regions have imposed sweeping bans on indoor pyrotechnics after a New Year’s Eve bar fire in Crans‑Montana killed 40 people and injured 116, prompting national outrage and urgent safety reforms. 

The move marks one of the most significant fire‑safety crackdowns in Switzerland in decades, as investigators confirm the blaze began when sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited sound‑insulating foam on the ceiling.

Officials say the blaze spread with explosive speed after sparklers fixed to champagne bottles were lifted too close to the ceiling, igniting acoustic foam and triggering a flashover that left young partygoers with no time to escape.

Officials have acknowledged that no fire‑safety inspection had been carried out at the bar for five years, a revelation that has shocked families and fuelled calls for accountability.

 

Photo Credit: Wikipedia Creative Commons License

Crans Montana été (PHOTO-GENIC.CH/ OLIVIER MAIRE)

Date: 11 August 2011, 08:27:59

Author: Crans-Montana-Communication 

 

Further reading: 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgezqvwr54no

https://www.rts.ch/info/regions/valais/2026/article/drame-de-crans-montana-caution-de-400-000-francs-demandee-aux-epoux-moretti-29120408.html

https://www.letemps.ch/suisse/crans-montana-les-moretti-ou-l-itineraire-d-un-couple-passe-en-une-nuit-du-succes-discret-a-l-opprobre-generalise