A deadly Swiss fire prompts calls for changes in Malta's bars

The use of electric and battery-powered sparklers has been suggested by a veteran of the nightclub scene, following the harrowing consequences of a fatal blaze in a Swiss bar on New Year’s Eve, sparked by indoor pyrotechnics.

Philip Fenech, Paceville Town Centre Management chairperson, has expressed concern about the risk of the popular Bengal candles and other pyrotechnics for celebratory purposes in clubs, calling for the use of safer alternatives.

Fenech was speaking in the wake of the devastating fire in Crans-Montana that claimed 40 victims – mostly teenagers – severely injuring 116.

“We need to think about this and find alternative ways to increase public safety, while not ruining the fun,” he said.

The tragedy, one of the worst in Swiss history, has led to a criminal investigation into potential safety failures. The blaze started when sparkler candles attached to champagne bottles were held close to the ceiling in the basement bar, igniting the highly combustible soundproofing material and leading to the rapid spread of the fire that engulfed the entire club.

An investigation into the Le Constellation bar’s owners is looking into a series of safety lapses, including the lack of annual fire inspections and non-compliance with safety standards in a country that is known to go by the book.

Talking as the former owner of an underground club, with years of experience in the nightlife and entertainment industry, Fenech expressed worry, based on his own “distressing” observations of minor incidents in bars and restaurants caused by sparklers and Bengal candles.

He has witnessed singed hair, or flames burning holes in clothing, due to the close proximity of crowds around waiters carrying flamed cocktails on trays, sparklers on champagne bottles and birthday cakes.

“They were lucky the fires did not catch on,” he said of the commotion caused.

Even though no major injuries were sustained in these cases, Fenech said they were “warning signs” and had got him thinking of how to reduce the danger using less harmful means.

‘Minimise the risk without spoiling the fun’

Bengal candles and other indoor pyrotechnics in bars have become more popular over the past four years, Fenech said.

“More affluence means more champagne,” Fenech said about the glamour of the trend that had a ripple effect, enticing others to join in the VIP vibe and celebrate in the same way, boosting sales of expensive drinks.

While their use indoors was deemed more hazardous, in view of low ceilings, curtains, carpets, decorations and other flammable materials, Fenech did not exclude the risks outside.

In crowded venues, with people partying, distracted, pushing, wobbling and hugging, it was very easy for clothes to catch fire, he pointed out.

Waiters could trip and fall as they walk by with their hand-held firework burning at a high temperature, while blowing on flamed drinks could result in ignited alcohol flying onto someone.

Fenech said electric and battery-operated versions had a safe and non-flammable effect, while still retaining the celebratory factor.

“They do the job – and stop the risks,” Fenech said.

Safety concerns

The high temperatures of some sparklers and the potential for human error have prompted calls for stricter regulations and bans, and the Swiss municipality has since barred the use of indoor pyrotechnics.

The tragedy also raised concerns over fire security measures and prompted appropriate action to evacuate the venue.

Fenech, who is also the deputy president of the Malta Chamber of SMEs, said fire safety regulations and structures were in place for licensed properties, which needed to remain compliant.

In the past, polystyrene was used in soundproof ceilings, but not anymore, he said, adding that, as a rule, anything flammable should be avoided.

Staff and security were trained for contingency plans when a licence was issued, and risk assessments were carried out, Fenech continued. But he could not say whether checks were carried out regularly.

The Malta Tourism Authority is responsible for the regulation of catering establishments and compliance with the issuing and retention of licences. Questions to the MTA remained unanswered.