Earlier this week, the Spanish Pyrotechnics Association appealed to town halls not to cancel fireworks for their fiestas because of the wildfires. The association stressed that fireworks displays are "strictly and extensively regulated".
In Mallorca, where fires this summer have caused very little damage, the risk alert has varied between level three and the maximum four; it is updated daily. When the risk is high, measures include the banning of fireworks except on urban land at least 500 metres from wooded areas.
An alternative to fireworks that certain town halls have adopted is a show using drones; this can emulate fireworks but without the risk. Three years ago, Inca became the first town hall to dispense with fireworks for the summer fiestas. The risk of fire wasn't the reason. The decision was taken for the benefit of people with autism and for animals.
In Porreres, a red alert for fire two years ago prompted the town hall to cancel fireworks for the Sant Roc Fiestas. Councillor Pol Salleras explains that the well-being of autistic people and animals subsequently led to the decision to replace fireworks with drones. "It's an impressive light and 3D show; like a pyromusical but without the pyro. In terms of price, it's a little more expensive, but not much more."
Drones for fiestas certainly aren't widespread yet, and Sant Joan is one town hall to have reversed a decision to dispense with fireworks. Last year, residents were consulted and voted in favour of not having fireworks. However, the decision wasn't popular with everyone. Fireworks were let off without permission. There was going to be another referendum this year, but in the end the decision was taken to have fireworks again, the mayor, Richard Thompson, saying he personally likes the idea of having a drones show instead.