France: three fireworks technicians injured in explosion during preparations in Gruissan
Three fireworks technicians were injured in an explosion during preparations for a scheduled August 15 fireworks display in Gruissan, in southern France, on Saturday, prompting authorities to cancel the evening event.
One of the injured workers, a woman, was reported to be in serious condition following the incident, according to local firefighters cited by AFP.
Two explosions reported at the fireworks truck
Emergency services were called at around 10:45 a.m. after two explosions occurred in quick succession.
The first blast took place inside a truck carrying the fireworks planned for the evening show. A second explosion was subsequently reported outside the vehicle.
The three injured people were all fireworks technicians who had been preparing the traditional August 15 display in the coastal town, according to the Aude departmental fire and rescue service.
Evening fireworks display cancelled
The incident led organisers to cancel the fireworks show that had been scheduled for Saturday evening.
Firefighters intervened at the scene after the explosions, while the circumstances surrounding the incident remained under investigation.
The authorities had not immediately established what caused the fireworks to ignite.
Investigation into the circumstances
The accident occurred during preparations for a public pyrotechnic event, highlighting the risks involved in handling fireworks even before a display begins.
Investigators will need to determine how the explosions occurred and whether any technical or operational issue contributed to the incident.
The condition of the seriously injured technician remains a key concern following the accident.
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