Swiss cantons enforce fire bans during National Day celebrations

Across several Swiss cantons, authorities upheld strict fire and fireworks bans on 1 August, the national holiday, amid a prolonged heatwave and high forest‑fire risk. In St. Gallen, police recorded 67 total violations since the ban’s start on 17 July, including seven breaches on the night of the celebration, and issued warnings or referrals to the cantonal prosecutor. Basel‑Stadt reported a peaceful Bundesfeier along the Rhine with no major incidents; the fire ban was largely respected, a petty theft was thwarted, minor fights were diffused, and two medical attendances were logged, while no fire‑brigade calls were needed. Zug’s police similarly noted a calm day with the public largely complying with the fire‑ and fireworks‑prohibition, preventing any significant incidents. In the Italian‑speaking canton of Ticino, the absolute fire ban, in force since 6 July, led to the cancellation of a planned fireworks display in Bellinzona, though a limited lake‑based pyrotechnic show received a special permit. Basel’s municipal authorities cancelled traditional pyrotechnic displays over the Rhine and from Bruderholz, substituting riverbank tents and evening events, while enhancing crowd‑control and hydration stations. Overall, the celebrations proceeded with large crowds, food stalls and community gatherings, but the enforced bans helped avoid fire‑related emergencies.