Firework retailers across Hambleton
and Richmondshire are supporting a voluntary code of practice in
the run up to Bonfire Night.
The code asks them to restrict the sale
of fireworks until this week - three weeks before November 5.
The Hambleton and Richmondshire Community
Safety Partnerships have joined forces with North Yorkshire Fire
and Rescue Service in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour, damage
and injury associated with the misuse of fireworks.
“We asked retailers to support the code to
limit the amount of time fireworks are available to buy,” said Pat
Wilson, Community Safety Manager.
“Every year over 900 people nationally are
seriously injured in firework accidents - often caused by misuse.
We want to reduce the number of people who are injured in this way,
and appreciate the support we receive from retailers in achieving
this."
She said that it is also vital that fireworks
are bought from a reputable retailer - to ensure that stringent
safety standards are met, and that firework displays go as
planned.
“Fireworks are safer than they have ever been
and - if used correctly - there is very little chance of anyone
getting injured,” she added. “It is illegal to sell
most fireworks to people under the age of 18, and it is a criminal
offence to let a firework off in a public place.”
Follow these tips for a safe bonfire
night:
• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
• Keep fireworks in a closed box
• Follow the instructions on each firework
• Light at arm's length, using a taper
• Stand well back
• 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
• Always supervise children around fireworks
• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
• Never give sparklers to a child under five
• Keep pets indoors
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