As Bonfire Night approaches Durham County Council’s trading standards team is warning members of the public to be on guard for illegal and unsafe fireworks this year.
Illegal fireworks can cause serious injury to the general public, especially to children.
Joanne Waller, head of environment, health and consumer protection, said: “The last few years has seen an upsurge in the sales of illegally imported and counterfeit fireworks as criminal gangs seek to expand their business.
“Illegal fireworks are often not tested to the strict British or European Safety standards with which legitimate fireworks have to comply. They can therefore be unstable and explode without warning.
“We have also seen counterfeit fireworks offered for sale, which despite showing the British Standard Markings would not meet the legal safety standards.”
All firework retailers are also being visited to be given advice on safe storage and to ensure that procedures are in place to prevent the sale of fireworks to children. Test purchases are carried out with child volunteers to ensure that the advice is being followed.
Cllr Bob Young, cabinet member for strategic environment and leisure, added: “We are determined that the sale of fireworks inCountyDurhamis conducted in a safe and responsible manner and also that accidents and nuisance caused by the misuse of fireworks is kept to a minimum.
“The community can play a big part in tackling the issues associated with the supply of illegal goods and sales to youngsters.
I would urge the public to buy their fireworks from reputable retailers or even better, attend a professionally organised display.”
Anyone wanting advice on firework sales, or wanting to report the sale of illegal fireworks should ring Durham County Council’s Fireworks Hotline on 03000 260 913.
