Target: Martin Pfister, Federal Councillor of Switzerland Office for Civil Protection
Goal: Advocate for strengthened safety measures at venues hosting public gatherings.
A New Year’s Eve celebration turned into unimaginable tragedy when a raging fire swept through a Switzerland bar. At least 40 people died in the blaze that consumed the establishment within an alarmingly short time span. Many more revelers suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation. Preliminary investigations have pointed to a number of troubling possibilities regarding potential safety violations.
For one, the sparkling flares on champagne bottles – believed to have been the cause of the disaster – are prohibited in a number of establishments because of safety concerns. They were reportedly in abundance at the party. In addition, the sound-muffling material on the roof that apparently first caught fire may have been a safety violation in itself. Authorities are also looking into alleged problems with the emergency exits and resources that were available at the bar. Perhaps most troubling of all are reports that the establishment had received poor safety ratings in the past.
Sign the petition below to demand Swiss leaders ensure proper and enforced oversight over venues frequented by countless trusting visitors.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Councillor Pfister,
Unfortunately, it often takes tragedy to spur needed action. The Le Constellation fire was undeniably a tragedy that will forever shape the lives of people in Switzerland and around the world. This horrific event should inspire change.
Numerous alleged safety violations may have created the perfect storm for chaos. If these reported long-running problems had been addressed swiftly and decisively at an earlier date, lives may have been saved. Instead, important safeguards like the prohibition on flares and fireworks in these venues are often treated as optional, and other potential red flags such as possibly deficient exits and reportedly faulty building materials are seemingly overlooked.
Please create a stronger, more robust framework of regulations and guidelines for entertainment venues. Make rigorous enforcement a cornerstone of this framework. This region and this nation host tourists from across the globe. Their safety – and the well-being of Swiss citizens – should come first.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Pavel Danilyuk
