Following the tragic New Year's fire in Switzerland that killed at least 40 people due to flaming ice torches, criticism is now directed at an after-ski bar in Sälen continuing to use similar effects. Visitors call it disrespectful and in bad taste, while experts warn of the risks. The owner promises to review procedures.
On December 31, a devastating fire broke out at the Le Constellation nightclub in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana during New Year's celebrations. At least 40 people died and over 100 were injured, according to investigators who point to flaming ice torches in champagne bottles as the cause. The torches ignited soundproofing foam mats in the ceiling, leading to a rapid spread of the fire.
Almost two days later, on January 2, Swedish tourists visited Tandådalens Wärdshus in Sälen for after-ski. There, around 20 groups were served flaming ice torches at tables, despite the tragedy. "Several of the torches were placed under wooden ceiling beams. Then I thought 'this can't be real'", says Evelina, 42, to Aftonbladet. Videos show staff placing the torches, and on one occasion, a person puts it in their mouth while it burns.
Another visitor describes it as "extremely in bad taste", especially considering the youngest victim in Switzerland was 16 years old. "Not all victims have even been identified yet", adds Evelina, emphasizing it feels disrespectful to the relatives.
Mats Björs, general secretary of the Swedish Fire Protection Association, reacts strongly to the footage: "It looks insanely dangerous. They're holding these torches way too high up." Although legal in Sweden, he deems it inappropriate and demands a ban on ice torches and indoor pyrotechnics, at least in smaller venues. "We've long demanded that politicians take fire safety seriously", he says.
Owner Fredrik Ekman responds in an email: "We always follow applicable laws and authority requirements. In light of what happened, we are now also reviewing our routines." Fire engineer Lars Brodin notes that foam ceilings are prohibited in Sweden, unlike in the Swiss club. He references a similar disaster in 2003 at the Station nightclub in the US, where 100 died after pyrotechnics ignited soundproofing material.
