Following a deadly New Year's Eve fire, Swiss regions are banning pyrotechnics in indoor public spaces. The canton of Valais imposed the ban after the blaze at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana killed 40 and injured 116. Geneva followed suit days after Vaud became the first canton to enact such a ban.
The Crans-Montana fire is believed to have started when sparklers on champagne bottles ignited soundproofing foam. The incident occurred at Le Constellation bar, a ski resort venue. Authorities confirmed the bar had not undergone safety inspections for five years.
Each victim will receive a 10,000 franc emergency payment. A fund is being established for further donations. The ban impacts bars, clubs, and other indoor venues across the affected cantons.
Le Constellation's French owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are cooperating with the investigation. They face accusations of manslaughter by negligence. The investigation continues to determine the full extent of the negligence.
Future safety regulations for indoor venues are now under review across Switzerland. The investigation's findings will likely influence stricter enforcement of existing fire safety codes.
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