Don’t be a dummy with fireworks

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Don’t be a dummy with fireworks

Fireworks go on general sale across Greater Manchester today, prompting a warning for people to be careful with these potentially lethal objects.

The Treacle Partnership, a multi-agency collaboration encouraging appropriate use of fireworks, has sent a stark message - don’t be a dummy with fireworks.

At Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) Training Centre a group of young people from Wythenshawe will see first-hand the drastic injuries fireworks can cause when misused. A real explosive charge will recreate the effects of a retail-sized firework detonating in someone’s hand, causing severe burns, permanent disfigurement, and potentially the loss of fingers or a hand.

Cllr Paul Shannon, Chairman of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority said, “This demonstration will definitely make people think. It will look to simulate the reality of what we come across every year, the horrible scars these fireworks can leave on a person’s life if they are misused. Our statistics show that you are far safer at a properly organised fireworks display than lighting them yourself at your own bonfire party or playing with them in the street. We are continuing to work as part of the Treacle Partnership to reduce the impact on all our communities of misusing fireworks and the associated anti social behaviour.”

Inspector Lin Houldershaw of Greater Manchester Police said, “Sadly every year we see how dangerous fireworks can be if they are misused and this demonstrates to young people the devastating effects it can have. We want everyone to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night safely, and by working with our Treacle partners we aim to continue reducing antisocial behaviour, improving resident’s quality of life and making this a safer and more enjoyable time.”

Graeme Levy, Trading Standards lead for the Treacle Partnership said: “As part of our commitment to Treacle, Trading Standards across Greater Manchester will be working with the retail trade to prevent illegal sales to children and will seize any stocks of fireworks of the types that have been banned. Those who put life and limb at risk by flouting these controls will face prosecution”.