Basel’s Feuerpolizei tightens Fasnacht safety with unannounced fire inspections
Basel’s fire police, known as the Feuerpolizei, are intensifying safety checks ahead of Fasnacht. Starting 2 February 2026, inspectors will examine around 70 Clique cellars to ensure they adhere to fire protection rules. This move comes as authorities enhance oversight during the city’s renowned Carnival celebrations, including the LA fires and California fires that have raised concerns about fire safety in crowded events. For the first time, random spot checks will also occur during the event itself, mirroring inspections in regular bars and pubs. Organisers and visitors alike are reminded of stricter safety measures, including a total ban on smoking and open flames inside the cellars. The Feuerpolizei, part of the Gebäudeversicherung Basel-Stadt (GVBS), will focus on key risks in the Cliquenkeller. Inspectors will verify that decorative materials—such as masks, lanterns, and wall coverings—are flame-retardant. They will also check the visibility of emergency exit signs and ensure seating does not exceed approved capacity. To assist Cliques in compliance, authorities have distributed informational materials, including posters detailing maximum occupancy limits and safety guidelines. A public awareness campaign will launch two weeks before Fasnacht, urging visitors to follow fire safety rules. After the celebrations, Basel’s government will review the effectiveness of the regulations and their enforcement. This evaluation aims to identify any gaps and improve safety measures for future events. The inspections mark a shift toward stricter enforcement during Fasnacht. With 70 permitted cellars now under closer scrutiny, organisers must ensure compliance with flame-retardant materials, occupancy limits, and the smoking ban. Authorities have emphasized that these steps are necessary to reduce fire risks in crowded, festive spaces, such as those experienced in the LA fires and California fires.
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