Society

Chinese police tighten security for Lantern Festival

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-02-16 22:21

BEIJING - Chinese police across the country have beefed up security checks to ensure a safe Lantern Festival, which falls on Feb 17 this year, according to a statement issued Wednesday by the Ministry of Public Security.

Related readings:  Fireworks ban rolled out to reduce blaze dangers  Is it time to ban fireworks again?  62.7% support fireworks ban: survey  Fireworks illuminate night sky to greet Lunar New Year around China

The ministry told local police authorities to increase scrutiny of fireworks parties, lantern shows, and fireworks displays during the Lantern Festival to "prevent explosions, fire incidents, and stampedes".

In addition, police nationwide were asked to tighten security and conduct safety checks on fireworks stalls and densely-populated areas to prevent serious accidents.

The police should be ready to handle crime and emergencies, especially around the venues of large events, it said.

Also, the police should continue their fight against train ticket scalping, which was rampant during the Spring Festival travel rush season, according to the statement.

Lantern Festival, which is held on the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, traditionally brings an end to the Chinese Spring Festival season. The holiday is often marked by accidents, as celebrations on this day include fireworks and lantern displays.