Bonfire night is only a few weeks away and many people across our region are getting ready to hold their own fireworks displays. But while they are fun to watch, fireworks can also prove extremely dangerous.
Fireworks went on sale last week and a teenager suffered severe burns when a lit firework exploded in their hand outside a shop in Liverpool , leaving them with 'potentially life-changing injuries'.
People annually express concern about what can happen when fireworks are set off in the street or in a dangerous way. Sainsburys has decided to stop selling fireworks this year. Asked the reason, a spokeswoman would not only say the decision was based on "a range of factors".
Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service recommend always attending an organised event and we have compiled a comprehensive . But we also looked at what the law says about the issue and what you can do if you think someone is breaking it.
Where can you set fireworks off - and where are you not allowed?
When members of the public buy fireworks they are only able to legally buy the types that are for private use. And that means the expectation is that you are using them for a private display on your own property, although if you're a tenant it also makes sense to check with your landlord.
Setting them off in the street or in public areas like parks is strictly prohibited unless you have a specific permit from the council.
What can you do if someone is setting off fireworks in your street?
Because setting them off in the street is both a crime and can also pose a fire risk you can report it to both the police and the fire service. However, you won't want to waste their time if the situation does not appear dangerous, and remember the law does not apply to anyone on private property.
Like other issues involving noise nuisance, you could also report the issue to your council's environmental health team who deal with noise.
What are the punishments?
You can be fined up to £5,000 and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally. The on-the-spot fine would be £90. Additionally, if you were to use fireworks illegally and damage someone else's property there is the chance they could bring a civil case against you.
When and where can you buy fireworks?
Fireworks can be purchased from most shops between October 15 and November 10 around Bonfire Night and between December 26 and 31 ahead for New Year Celebrations. They can also be purchased for the three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year.
What is the fire service's advice on fireworks?
The fire service have a Firework Code of dos and don't for those planning to hold their own displays:
DOs
- Only buy fireworks from retailers registered with the fire service
- Keep fireworks in a closed box
- Follow the instructions on each fireworkKeep them at arm's length, using a taper
- Stand well back
- Always supervise children around fireworks
- Light sparklers one at a time and use gloves
- Keep pets indoors
DON'Ts
- Don't drink alcohol while setting off fireworks
- Never go near a firework that has been lit - even if it hasn't gone off it could still explode
- Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
- Never give sparklers to a child under five
- Don't let fireworks off after 11pm
