We wanted to share an update on the work we are doing around the misuse of fireworks. We know that fireworks are increasingly becoming an issue throughout the year, and misuse of them can cause distress and anger among residents.

We are working with our partner agencies on this, and need your help. We need to know when and where fireworks are being set off, and by who. This information is vital in helping us know who and where to target.

What can you do to help us?

If you see or hear fireworks being set off, please tell us in as much detail where this is happening. If you have names of offenders, street names and house numbers, this is crucial. If you’re able to do so safely, film any incidents, and send this to us. This footage could be a huge help in identifying locations and people involved. Please make sure you protect yourself in these instances as your safety is paramount. If there is an ongoing emergency, please call 999. You can also report any incidents to 101 or online and share any video footage or photos with us. If you would like to report any incidents anonymously, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

As a reminder, this is the current legislation for fireworks in the UK:

Using fireworks:

You cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks (Category 2 and 3) if you are under the age of 18. Category 4 fireworks can only be used by professionals. It’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions, which are:

·         Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight

·         New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am

You must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public spaces.

Buring fireworks:

You can only buy fireworks (including sparklers) from registered sellers for private use on these dates:

·         15th October to 10th November

·         26th to 31st December

·         Three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year

At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.

You can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.

If you know of any shops selling fireworks illegally, please report this to us as well.

Thank you for your time reading this important message, and please do report any incidents regarding fireworks to us.