Anti-Social Hotspots Targeted in Clampdown on Sales of Fireworks to Kids
Retailers who illegally sell fireworks to children are warned they will be targeted in an undercover test purchase operation.
Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards Service and Warwickshire Police, acting on intelligence gathered from local communities will be targeting anti-social behaviour hotspots across Warwickshire to clamp down on the sale of fireworks to children.
Child volunteers will be asked to attempt to buy fireworks and retailers who sell could face prosecution and if convicted a fine of up to £5000 and/or a 6 month prison sentence.
Warwickshire County Councillor Richard Hobbs, Portfolio Holder for Community Protection said:
“At this time of year, fireworks often feature prominently in reports of anti-social behaviour with children letting them off in the street or park. Most retailers are doing a good job, asking for proof of age and preventing the sale of firework to minors.
But unfortunately there are a minority of firework retailers who are not taking their responsibilities seriously and they are warned – we will be paying you a visit!”
In the UK firework related injuries to children account for over half the total number of injuries reported each year and a quarter are sustained in the street or other public place.
Retailers wanting advice on preventing the sale of fireworks to children can contact Warwickshire Trading Standards on 01926 414040.
For information on firework safety visit: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fireworks
The Trading Standards Service has the duty to enforce legislation controlling the sale and safety of fireworks. It also registers retailers who store and sell fireworks.
Under the Fireworks (Safety) Regulations 1997 adult fireworks (which include sparklers) must not be supplied to persons under 18. Failure to comply can result in prosecution and a fine of up to £5000 and/or a prison sentence of up to 6 months.
Under The Explosives Act 1875 (as amended) it is an offence to throw or discharge a firework in a street or public place. Failure to comply can result in prosecution and a fine of up to £5000.
Statistics sourced from the Department of Trade and Industry.