Fireworks - 28th Oct, 2008

In the run up to Bonfire Night Sian James MP is backing a drive to ensure that all fireworks are sold responsibly.

Earlier this month the Government published "Tackling Firework Misuse -A practitioner's guide", which illustrates the powers available to local authorities and police. These include Anti-Social Behaviour Orders, Acceptable Behaviour Contracts and penalty notices for disorder, which can be used to tackle the small minority of people who misuse fireworks.

The current firework laws mean:

• It is illegal to sell fireworks to under 18s, or for under 18s to possess fireworks in a public place;
• Fireworks that exceed 120 decibels cannot be sold to the general public; and
• Outside specific seasonal periods it is an offence to supply fireworks without a licence.

Sian James MP said:

“Bonfire Night is one that many people enjoy and a time for local residents to come together. But, if not handled properly, fireworks can be dangerous and nuisance to others.

“I want to ensure that all fireworks are sold responsibly and if they are sold illegally, the retailer faces a severe fine or even prison.

"People who use fireworks must follow the rules and parents should take essential safety precautions so that everyone stays safe and has a great time on bonfire night."

More Information

1. The government document can be found at: http://www.respect.gov.uk/uploadedFiles/Members_site/Document_Library/step-by-step_guides/Fireworks_step_by_step0082.pdf

2. The Home Office (BERR) says the following about firework misuse (see above doc):

WHAT IS ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR INVOLVING FIREWORKS?

Anti-social behaviour involving fireworks ranges from fireworks being set off late at night with no regard for the noise nuisance this causes, to deliberate physical harm or threat of harm caused to people, animals and property. This sort of behaviour can cause communities to live in fear, and any action where fireworks are used to harass, intimidate or cause damage to others is criminal andanti-social.

THE IMPACT OF FIREWORKS MISUSE

Managing fireworks issues in the community is about striking a balance between responsible enjoyment by the majority and irresponsible use by a minority. The misuse of fireworks can have a range of impacts on the community, and in the wrong hands fireworks can be damaging and dangerous.

3. The penalties for misuse are:

SALE AND SUPPLY OF FIREWORKS

The local authority, trading standards officers, customs officers and the local fire service also have a role to play in ensuring that fireworks are stored correctly and supplied to appropriate persons. Offences carry a maximum penalty of a £5,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment or both.