Belarusians threatened with fines for dangerous social media trend
The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has warned Belarusians about the problems that a recently popular, yet dangerous trend can bring – setting flammable liquid on asphalt in the shape of numbers representing the birthday person's age. Such videos are often filmed for social media publication, but instead of congratulations, this can result in a fine.
Setting fires on the road damages the asphalt and leaves difficult-to-remove traces. Furthermore, videos usually retain the date, filming location, and the participant's age, which can serve as evidence for the police.
Such actions entail liability under several articles. Damaging road surfaces can result in a fine of 2 to 5 basic units, plus the obligation to pay for road repairs. Violation of fire safety rules is punishable by a fine of up to 30 basic units, while petty hooliganism can lead to a fine, public works, or arrest.
In the event of intentional destruction or damage to property, criminal liability is also possible – up to 10 years of imprisonment.
The MIA also reminds of health risks. Gasoline, alcohol, and kerosene ignite very easily, and the direction of the flame during ignition is unpredictable. The clothes or phone of the person filming the video could catch fire. Smoke and fire near the road can distract drivers and cause an accident.
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