Rotterdam region urges public to not hinder emergency services on New Year’s
The Rotterdam-Rijnmond Safety Region is calling on the public to avoid interfering with emergency services during New Year’s Eve, following incidents of violence against responders in previous years. Last year, riots in Oud-Beijerland and Rotterdam disrupted operations, prompting a stern warning from officials this year.
“We must ensure that our people can do their jobs safely when they come to help. Please, do not hinder them,” said Arjen Littooij, director of the Safety Region. The agency anticipates a similar level of firework-related injuries and property damage as in previous years.
To prepare for the high-risk night, 550 emergency responders, including firefighters and ambulance personnel, will be on duty. The night shift includes 23 dispatchers, 340 firefighters, and 27 ambulances—10 more than a typical night. Additionally, 32 other regional safety employees will be deployed.
During last year’s New Year’s Eve in Nieuw-Beijerland, emergency responders were attacked with fireworks after being called to extinguish several fires late in the evening. Police and firefighters were forced to retreat as the situation escalated. The Mobile Unit was deployed to restore order, an incident described by authorities as “war-like scenes.”
Two police officers were injured, suffering burns and hearing damage.
In Rotterdam, last year’s festivities were marked by violence against emergency services. Police responded to multiple incidents, including an illegal rave near Spartastadion where an officer was injured. Firefighters received 600 calls, double the number from the previous year, while ambulance crews handled 227 dispatches, an increase from prior years.
While the overall damage in Rotterdam was lower than in 2021, the city reported 221,000 euros in destruction from the night.
Since April 2020, Rotterdam has enforced a ban on consumer fireworks, except for small-scale items classified as “children’s fireworks.” The ban aims to reduce injuries, property damage, and public disturbances. Violators risk fines starting at 100 euros, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses.
