An explosion triggered by the improper discharge of fireworks killed eight people and injured two in Jiangsu province as authorities warned of rising risks ahead of Lunar New Year
Eight people were killed and two injured after an explosion tore through a fireworks store in Donghai county in eastern China’s Jiangsu province on Sunday afternoon, according to local authorities.
The blast occurred at around 2:30 pm (0630 GMT) after the “improper discharge” of fireworks by one or more villagers set off an explosion at a nearby shop, officials said in a statement posted on social media.
Emergency response and casualties
Emergency management, fire, public security, and health officials were dispatched immediately to conduct rescue and response operations, Donghai authorities said.
The fire caused by the explosion was brought under control by around 4:00 pm. Authorities confirmed that eight people were killed, while two others suffered minor burns.
Investigations are under way, and those responsible have been taken into custody.
Lunar New Year fireworks warning
Rural communities across China commonly use sparklers and screeching “missile” fireworks to mark holidays and milestones, including the Lunar New Year, which falls on Tuesday.
The Ministry of Emergency Management said the country was entering the peak period for fireworks use during the holiday, cautioning the public against unsafe practices such as test-firing or smoking outside shops.
The ministry also issued a notice to fireworks enterprises nationwide requiring a full inspection of safety risks and hazards.
Industrial accidents occur frequently in China, often linked to weak safety standards.
Earlier this month, an explosion at a biotech factory in Shanxi province killed eight people. In late January, a blast at a steel factory in neighbouring Inner Mongolia left at least nine people dead.
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