Don't Be A Fool With Fireworks

Police and fire want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Bonfire night, to act responsibly and think about your actions and think about others.

In 2009, Mary Fox was killed in her Bodmin Home after youths pushed a firework through her letterbox - she died beacause the fire took hold with all the paperwork she'd accumulated over the years.

Now, police and fire are working together to make sure people recognise the dangers and don't act anti-socially.

Throwing fireworks, selling them to Under 18's can lead to the following:

• . Confiscation of fireworks (if under 18)
• . An on-the-spot fine
• . Arrest
• . A criminal record

Incidents of anti-social behaviour in the run-up to Bonfire night have gone down. But police say one incident is one to many and can potential seriously injure or kill someone.

Its hoped this 'Don't be a fool with fireworks' campaign can be rolled out nationwide.

Bodmin Crew manager Mark Pratton and Neighbourhood Beat Sargeant Jared Connop tell Heart the reasons they wanted to start the campaign:

LISTEN HERE

The main advice is to celebrate Bonfire night by going to an organised display and if you see any youngsters messing around with fireworks then phone 101 immediately and report the misuse of fireworks.

Fireworks and the law

It is illegal:

• To let off any fireworks in a public place- this carries a fine of up to £5000. We may also issue an £80 Fixed Penalty Notice. 
• To set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am (Bonfire night extended until 12 midnight).
• For a member of the public to possess a “display” style firework (Category 4 fireworks, can only be used by professionals).
• To cause unnecessary suffering to animals with fireworks. Maximum penalty £5000 and/or six months in prison.
• To sell bangers, mini rockets, fireworks that fly erratically (Squibs, helicopters etc), aerial shells and maroons.
• To store fireworks for private use for more than 14 days
• To sell fireworks to anyone under 18 years of age. Maximum penalty - £5000 and/or six months in prison.

Police have the power to stop and search anyone suspected of carrying fireworks. All fireworks sold to the public must comply to British Safety Standard BS 7114