Swiss canton bans indoor pyrotechnics and launches Crans-Montana victims’ fund

Valais bans indoor fireworks Keystone-SDA

Following the devastating fire in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, which left 40 dead and 116 injured, the Valais cantonal government has banned pyrotechnics in venues open to the public and set up a fund to support victims.

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“We have decided to ban the use of pyrotechnics in venues open to the public,” the Valais cantonal government said in a statement. Canton Vaud introduced a similar ban last week following the deadly fire in Crans-Montana.

The Valais cantonal government has also set up a fund for victims of the fire. A lump sum of CHF10,000 ($12,486) will be provided for each person who was hospitalised or died, the authorities said.

+ Crans-Montana tragedy: ‘Our hearts go out to you’, say Swiss Abroad

A donation account has been opened for individuals and organisations wishing to contribute. All funds will go to an independent foundation, which is still in the process of being set up.

Translated from French by AI/sp

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