Added by Lucy Li on October 15, 2012.
Zhejiang, China – On the opening ceremony of Hangzhou West Lake EXPO, a firework explosion injured 151 people sitting at the audience stand on October 13. As part of the tradition of West Lake EXPO, the firework show this year was held at two different locations: West Lake and The Canal.
Witness said the fireworks explosion occurred in Section C of the Canal when a discharged firework suddenly fly from water surface to the crowds in audience stands. A victim described her experience at the scene. “It was like a fireball coming towards me. My left leg is wounded and my skirt was burnt.” She said. Another victim said many people thought the firework splash was part of the show, and didn’t notice the hazard at first. The crowds realized the danger until themselves were actually injured.
All wounded were taken to the nearby hospital after the explosion. Among 151 victims, Mr. Xu was diagnosed with a severe second degree burn. He tried to block the firework splash with his left hand subconsciously, while the blast injured his left hand and cheek. Although most victims suffered from only minor injuries, two severely wounded were hospitalized for further treatments.
Local authorities in Hangzhou started its investigation of the fireworks explosion. The first West Lake EXPO was dated back in 1929. From 2000, the EXPO was held once a year in Hangzhou. This is the first time of a firework show in the EXPO ceremony. FMN
