The Federal Police have reported that the transition into 2026 was largely peaceful across Austria, with only a handful of incidents disrupting the otherwise calm New Year's celebrations. While most regions experienced a smooth start to the new year, authorities responded to several isolated events involving pyrotechnics, fire outbreaks, and minor disturbances.

Pyrotechnic Devices Confiscated Nationwide

Law enforcement officers confiscated approximately 2,800 pyrotechnic items during their nationwide operations. Police also carried out over 3,100 identity checks and made 30 arrests, evenly split between criminal and administrative offenses. The majority of these cases were connected to improper handling or illegal possession of fireworks and other pyrotechnic materials.

Injuries and Legal Actions Related to Pyrotechnics

At least eight police officers sustained injuries during the New Year's Eve deployments. Authorities recorded 14 incidents of bodily harm caused by fireworks, most of which resulted in minor injuries. Additionally, 61 property damage cases were attributed to careless use of pyrotechnics. Law enforcement initiated 63 proceedings related to arson or negligent fire setting, also linked to fireworks misuse, while 14 further complaints involved accidents stemming from pyrotechnic devices.

Enforcement of Safety Regulations

To reinforce safety, police issued 139 on-the-spot fines and 729 administrative penalties under the Pyrotechnics Act and corresponding regional regulations. As a result, 421 individuals were reported for breaches of these laws, reflecting the authorities' commitment to minimizing risks associated with fireworks during holiday celebrations.

Significant Fire Incidents and Rescues

Several fire events, some caused by fireworks, required prompt action from emergency services in different states. In Burgenland's Neusiedl am See, a grass fire affected roughly one hectare. In Carinthia, a forest fire of similar scale broke out on Mount Ankogel. Notably, in Rohrbach near St. Florian, a farm building caught fire, and in St. Valentin, an apartment complex blaze left three individuals injured. Tyrol also experienced multiple incidents, including a residential building fire in Schwaz that resulted in injuries and a forest and grass fire in Hochzirl, both linked to pyrotechnics.

In Graz, a fire was triggered inside a local establishment by sparklers, causing injuries to ten people--nine with minor wounds and one with more serious harm. Approximately 200 patrons had to be evacuated safely from the premises as a preventive measure.

Additional Incidents Involving Violence and Accidents

Police interventions also addressed other security concerns. In Wiener Neustadt, Lower Austria, a group of four youths reportedly committed a robbery, stealing pyrotechnics at knifepoint. In Salzburg, two officers suffered minor injuries when responding to a fight, and a blank-firing weapon was seized at the scene. In Vienna, a serious accident occurred when a minor suffered significant hand injuries, resulting in amputation, after handling high-powered fireworks.

Ongoing Commitment to Public Safety

The Federal Police emphasized ongoing efforts to ensure public safety during major events. The swift response to incidents and robust enforcement of regulations were credited with mitigating more severe outcomes during the New Year's festivities. Emergency services and first responders were recognized for their dedication to maintaining order and responding to emergencies throughout the night.

Authorities continue to assess the events and gather further information to enhance preventive measures and reduce risks during future public celebrations involving fireworks and large gatherings.