“Use fireworks safely and considerately” – Safer Herefordshire advises

The Safer Herefordshire Partnership is urging anyone using fireworks to be aware of the dangers of firework misuse and to follow the firework code.
Not everyone enjoys fireworks in the same way and it is timely to remember that irresponsible use of fireworks can pose a danger to people and property. Fireworks can scare people, especially the elderly and small children, and can frighten animals which should be kept indoors, if at all possible.
Councillor John Jarvis, Herefordshire Council’s cabinet member for the environment and strategic housing, said: “We want people to enjoy fireworks but to ensure they keep themselves and any vulnerable people safe by following simple rules and then we can all enjoy this time of year.
“We would also urge people to be careful when planning bonfires and not to put materials on them that will not burn or could create toxic fumes,” he added.
Top tips for a safe fireworks night are:
1)   Only buy fireworks that meet the British Standard - BS 7114
2)   Only allow adults to light or hold fireworks
3)   Never return to a lit firework, even if it looks like it has done out
4)   Stand well back when watching fireworks
5)   Keep pets indoors
6)   Never give sparklers to children who are under five years old and make sure they put them out in
      buckets of water.

It is an offence under the Explosives Act for anyone to throw or set off fireworks in a public place, and the police can issue on the spot fines of up to £5,000. In addition the Fireworks Regulations 2004 make it an offence for anyone under the age of 18 to possess fireworks in a public place.
Anyone planning to use fireworks should also remember the curfew times, set by the Government, which prevents firework use between 11pm and 7am, and anyone who breaches this could be liable to a £5,000 fine.
Safer Herefordshire Partnership is made up of local agencies working together to make Herefordshire an even safer place to live and visit.  Details may be found at www.herefordshire.gov.uk/community_and_living/1306.asp
Further information on the firework code can be found at www.dti.gov.uk/fireworks