The Deadly Risks of Fireworks in Enclosed Venues: A Tragic Lesson from Macedonia

Before we go forward with blog, the institute of live events would like to take this opportunity and pay our condolence to all that have lost their lives and those who were injured in this disaster.

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Fireworks have long been a symbol of celebration, dazzling spectators with their bright colours and dramatic effects. However, their use in enclosed venues presents significant risks, as tragically highlighted by the recent fire in a Macedonian nightclub, where 59 people lost their lives. This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of using pyrotechnics in confined spaces and raises urgent questions about fire safety regulations, risk assessment, and the responsibilities of venue operators.

The Tragedy in Macedonia: A Case Study

On March 16, 2025 a devastating fire broke out in a nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, resulting in the deaths of 59 individuals and hospitalised 155 people. Early reports suggest that the fire was ignited by an indoor fireworks display that quickly spread throughout the venue. Flammable materials, inadequate fire exits, and overcrowding contributed to the rapid escalation of the disaster, making escape nearly impossible for many patrons.

This tragic event mirrors past incidents where pyrotechnic displays in enclosed venues have led to catastrophic consequences. It highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations, better fire safety education, and more comprehensive risk assessments before allowing the use of fireworks indoors.

Understanding the Risks of Fireworks in Enclosed venues

Fireworks are fundamentally designed for outdoor use, where the open air disperses heat and smoke, reducing the risk of ignition. When used indoors, they pose multiple hazards here are the risks using fireworks in enclosed venues.

1. Increased Fire Hazard

Fireworks emit sparks, flames, and intense heat, which can ignite flammable decorations, curtains, furniture, and even clothing. In a nightclub or concert hall, where materials like foam insulation, drapes, and plastic fittings are commonly used, even a single stray spark can lead to an uncontrollable blaze.

2. Toxic Smoke and Reduced Visibility

Fireworks release thick smoke and toxic fumes, including carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and metal particulates. In an enclosed venue, these gases can quickly reduce oxygen levels, impair vision, and cause fatal asphyxiation within minutes. Many victims of nightclub fires succumb to smoke inhalation before flames even reach them.

Rapid Fire Spread Due to Confined Space

In an enclosed venue, fires spread exponentially faster than in open areas. The limited airflow, presence of combustible materials, and the concentration of people create the perfect storm for a rapidly spreading blaze. Once a fire ignites, it can engulf an entire venue within minutes, leaving little to no time for evacuation.

Overcrowding and Difficult Exits

Nightclubs and event spaces often operate at full capacity, with patrons packed closely together. Narrow hallways, locked emergency exits, and obstructed escape routes further increase the likelihood of mass casualties when a fire breaks out. Panic and stampedes make orderly evacuation nearly impossible.

Lessons from Past Firework-Related Disasters

The Macedonian nightclub fire is not an isolated incident. History has recorded multiple tragedies caused by indoor fireworks, including:

The Station Nightclub Fire (USA, 2003): A pyrotechnic display during a concert in Rhode Island ignited highly flammable foam insulation, causing a fire that killed 100 people and injured 230 more. The venue lacked adequate fire exits, and most victims died from smoke inhalation.

Kiss Nightclub Fire (Brazil, 2013): A flare set off during a band’s performance ignited the club’s acoustic foam, resulting in the deaths of 242 people. The absence of emergency exits and security blocking patrons from leaving worsened the disaster.

Colectiv Nightclub Fire (Romania, 2015): A pyrotechnic display set fire to the club’s soundproofing foam, killing 64 people and leading to major protests over fire safety violations.

These incidents reinforce the dangers of indoor fireworks in enclosed venues, where a single mistake can have irreversible consequences.

Fireworks That Are Safe for Indoor Use

While traditional fireworks are unsuitable for enclosed venues, certain pyrotechnic alternatives can be used safely indoors, provided they comply with fire safety standards. These include:

1. Cold Spark Machines

Unlike traditional fireworks, cold spark machines produce cold-burning sparks that do not generate flames or excessive heat. They are widely used at concerts and stage performances as they minimise fire hazards while maintaining a dramatic effect.

2. Confetti Cannons

These use compressed air instead of pyrotechnic charges to launch colourful confetti into the air. They create a visual spectacle without the risks of fire or smoke inhalation.

3. CO2 Jets and Fog Machines

CO2 jets release instant bursts of cold air that resemble smoke effects. Similarly, fog machines use water-based fog fluid to create atmospheric effects, making them ideal substitutes for fireworks.

4. LED Light Effects

Advanced LED pyrotechnic displays can mimic the look of fireworks without the inherent fire risks. These programmable light shows provide dynamic and safe alternatives for indoor events.

5. Flame-Retardant Special Effects

Some venues use fire-retardant pyrotechnic effects, specifically designed to minimise the risk of fire. However, strict safety protocols must still be followed.

Fire Safety Regulations and Prevention Measures

To prevent tragedies like the Macedonian nightclub fire, it is crucial to implement and enforce strict fire safety regulations when considering the use of fireworks in enclosed spaces. Some key preventive measures include:

Prohibiting Fireworks in Enclosed Venues

Many countries have banned or severely restricted the use of indoor pyrotechnics due to the high risks involved. Venue owners and event planners should opt for safer alternatives, such as LED effects or cold spark machines, which do not emit flames or generate excessive heat.

Rigorous Fire Safety Inspections

Authorities should conduct regular inspections to ensure that venues comply with fire safety codes, including the presence of fireproof materials, functioning sprinklers, and accessible emergency exits.  Any venue found to be non-compliant should face immediate closure or fines.

Adequate Fire Suppression Systems

It isn’t a prerequisite that every venue should be equipped with automatic sprinkler systems, but all must have fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms. In the event of a fire, these systems can delay fire spread and allow patrons more time to escape.

Staff Training and Emergency Preparedness

Venue staff must undergo regular fire safety training to handle emergency situations effectively.  Crowd control measures, evacuation drills, and clear communication protocols are essential to ensuring swift and safe responses during a fire.

Clear and Accessible Escape Routes

Emergency exits should be clearly marked, well-lit, and free from obstructions. Authorities should enforce strict policies to prevent venues from locking or blocking exits for security or operational reasons.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action

The Macedonian nightclub fire is a grim reminder that fire safety must be a top priority in event planning. Fireworks, while spectacular, do not belong in enclosed spaces where they pose a severe risk to human life. Governments, venue owners, and event organisers must work together to ensure that preventive measures are in place, saving lives before another tragedy occurs.

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