A total of 18 people, including eight children...

The emergencies center said the statistics covered the period from December 31, 2009 to January 3, 2010.

In 2009, 35 people, including six children, were injured during New Year celebrations.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev recently ordered nationwide fire safety checks after the deadly December 5 fire in a nightclub in the west Urals city of Perm that has claimed 154 lives, according to an updated report, with many victims still in intensive care.

Last week, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin approved new rules on the sales and use of pyrotechnics, banning indoor use of fireworks, as well as their use on rooftops and balconies.

MOSCOW, January 3 (RIA Novosti)