Key Takeaways:
- Authorities in Shymkent have stepped up inspections to curb the sale of uncertified pyrotechnics: Shymkent fireworks safety is now a priority.
- Police and rescuers carried out raids, seizing products without permits and issuing daily protocols.
- Medical teams and the hyperbaric oxygen centre increased readiness amid warnings about severe burn and amputation risks.
- Officials say fewer incidents in recent years show the inspections are having an effect.
Shymkent authorities have intensified controls over the sale of pyrotechnic products as the New Year approaches, citing public safety concerns and a rise in uncertified items circulating in the market. Rescue services and police have carried out joint inspections of retail outlets to check quality certificates, storage conditions and the legality of sales.
Shymkent fireworks safety measures intensify
Inspectors discovered a number of vendors trading without the required permits or certificates. Products that lacked documentation were confiscated and vendors were issued administrative protocols. According to local police, enforcement teams routinely draw up four to five reports each day during these operations.
“During raid operations we file around four to five protocols daily, including for Christmas tree stands, fireworks and other pyrotechnics,” said Bibiayim Musaeva, senior inspector at the Al-Farabi district police department. “Vendors are warned; selling without the necessary documentation is prohibited by law.”
The city’s State Fire Control Department emphasised the inherent danger of pyrotechnic items. “Pyrotechnic devices pose a real hazard. Because of the risk of ignition and explosion, entrepreneurs must only offer products that carry a factory-issued certificate,” said Zholdas Akhmetov, senior specialist at the department.
Medical officials warned of the severe injuries that can result from unsafe fireworks. Madina Ermakhanbetova, chief physician at the municipal hyperbaric oxygenation centre, described burns, facial and eye injuries and far worse outcomes from powerful devices. “There have been cases where a device explodes prematurely, causing serious trauma. Severe burns may require extensive treatment and, in extreme cases, amputation,” she said.
In preparation for the holiday period, the hyperbaric centre has increased staffing and organised additional medical watch teams to respond rapidly to any surge in casualties. Emergency services stress the importance of buying certified products, storing them safely and following manufacturer instructions.
The joint enforcement effort aims to remove substandard and illegally circulated pyrotechnics from the market. Officials said that products lacking proper documentation were seized during checks and that vendors found to be non‑compliant face administrative penalties.
Authorities also noted a positive trend: incidents involving fires and injuries related to pyrotechnics have declined in recent years. “The reduction in accidents suggests these raid operations are effective,” a rescue service official said, adding that continued vigilance will be maintained through the holiday season.
Consumers are urged to verify that any pyrotechnic product they purchase has the appropriate quality certificate and to follow storage and usage instructions strictly. Local authorities warned that the sale of uncertified items will not be tolerated and reiterated that enforcement will remain strong while festivities continue.
The city’s combined approach – regulatory inspections, medical preparedness and public warnings – is designed to reduce the risk of accidents and protect residents during the high‑demand holiday period.
