Officers will also be monitoring the counties markets and car boot sales, on the look out for traders selling fireworks illegally. It is an offence to sell fireworks in a public place and those prosecuted may face a fine of up to £5000. Retailers are also reminded that the age at which fireworks can be purchased is 18 and over.
Sparklers, a favourite with children, cause more injuries than any other firework and parents are advised to follow sparkler instructions and not give them to children under the age of five. Parents need also to remember that a sparkler burns at five times the heat of a bonfire barbecue and are therefore advised to supervise closely any child using one. Children should wear gloves when holding sparklers and used sparklers should be disposed of in a bucket of cold water.
Follow the Firework Code
1) Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
2) Never give sparklers to a child under 5
3) Buy fireworks marked BS 7114
4) Keep fireworks in a closed box
5) Follow the instructions on each firework
6) Light them at arm's length using a taper
7) Stand well back
8) Never go back to a lit firework
9) Never put fireworks in your pocket
10) Never throw fireworks
11) Keep pets indoors
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