The popular myth of the drunk fireworks in the Valencian Fallas: "If you run, it chases you"

TL;DR

This study uses Monte Carlo simulations to investigate a Valencian Fallas myth, revealing that running from drunk fireworks indeed increases the chance of being hit, thus scientifically validating the folk legend.

Contribution

It provides a computational analysis of a popular myth, demonstrating that folklore can contain scientifically relevant insights.

Findings

Running increases the probability of being hit by fireworks.

Monte Carlo simulation confirms the myth's validity.

Popular myths can have scientific basis.

Abstract

There is a popular myth transferred from generation to generation related to the festivity of the Valencian Fallas. During these days, it is traditional to throw pyrotechnic devices of all kinds. There is a legend about the so-called drunk fireworks, small rockets that move randomly at high speed. According to folk wisdom, if you try to run away from a drunk firework, it will chase you until it hits you. It is performed a Monte Carlo simulation without considering aerodynamic effects to see if there is indeed a greater chance of a person being hit when moving. The results indicate that the popular myth is correct, at least in terms of having a higher probability of impact. Once again, it is demonstrated that popular myths can be a source of valuable knowledge beyond formal science.