Pyros do not belong in the stands – not even in football

The use of pyrotechnics does not belong in the stands at sporting events. Safety must take precedence over tradition, and there is no place for smoke devices and pyrotechnics among spectators without proper authorization, Police Inspector Tuomo Korhonen writes in his blog on the Police website.

– Sports fan culture is built on community spirit, club colours and strong emotions. Recently, however, smoke devices and pyrotechnic products, known as pyros, have attracted increasing attention as their use has become more common in Finland.

– From the police perspective, the matter is clear: the use of pyrotechnics at public events is prohibited and is generally treated as a violation of explosives regulations. The only exception is professionally organised displays carried out under a separate permit, Korhonen writes.

– Pyros pose significant safety risks. According to the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes), their use among spectators can result in serious health hazards and injuries. The risk is particularly high indoors.

The event organiser is responsible for the safety of the event. The police aim to ensure that matches and other sporting events can be held without disruption or dangerous situations.