For safe fireworks contact the ‘Good Guys’

Fireworks

Rochdale Borough Council, police and fire fighters are advising residents only to buy fireworks that meet British Safety Standards.

Look out for the reputable retailers across the borough who are part of the council’s Good Guy Scheme, to be sure that the fireworks you buy are safe.

Shops who are part of the scheme will display posters and certificates stating that they’re ‘good guy’ retailers.

Andy Glover, Public Protection Manager at Rochdale Borough Council, said; “The safest way to enjoy bonfire night is to attend an organised event. There’s a lot happening across the borough. However, if you’re hosting a bonfire party this year, please don’t cut corners just to save a few pounds. Always buy your fireworks from a reputable retailer and make sure they have BS 7114 on the box. Don’t ever buy fireworks from an unlicensed trader!

"The retailers who are part of our Good Guys Scheme have made a commitment to sell fireworks that meet safety standards and sell them responsibly.”

It’s illegal for fireworks to be sold to any customer aged under 18 years.

Dale Mulgrew, cabinet member responsible for community safety, added: ”Bonfire Night is always a fun and exciting celebration and our organised fireworks displays promise to be spectacular, I hope many of you come and join us! If you’re planning on setting off your own fireworks at home then please be safe and please make sure you’ve bought your fireworks from the Good Guy retailers.”

As part of Operation Treacle, local police, fire fighters together with trading standards teams will be working hard patrolling your streets, enforcing the responsible sale of fireworks, promoting safe and respectful behaviour and keeping communities safe.

Mike Cryer, Community Fire Safety Officer explained: “Since the launch of Treacle in 2009 Rochdale borough has seen a decrease in deliberately started and secondary fires of some 40% over the bonfire season, and with our partner agencies and the Safe4Autumn campaign we are looking to reduce this figure even further this year.”

Chief Inspector Nadeem Mir for Rochdale Division, said: “The Halloween and bonfire night period is a challenging time for police and our colleagues at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Rochdale Borough Council but by working together we will reduce crime and antisocial behaviour during this time.

“We don’t want to spoil anyone's fun but by working with other agencies we want to raise awareness of the consequences of committing acts of antisocial behaviour. This could be a visit by police to an offender’s home or an £80 on the spot fine and a criminal record.

“It is important for communities to listen to our advice on safety. We also recommend that fireworks are purchased from retailers that are approved by the council’s Good Guy Scheme.”

During the Halloween and bonfire night period officers from neighbourhood teams across the borough will patrol hotspot areas. There will be dedicated firework safety patrol vehicles fitted with video surveillance equipment, test purchases will be carried out at off-licences to stop underage drinking and truancy sweeps will operate.

Anyone found harassing or intimidating people or vandalising property will face police action and under 18s will face an £80 fine if they are in possession of a firework.

People can visit www.safe4autumn.com for safety advice, details of organised bonfire events or to download your own Halloween trick or treaters welcome / not welcome posters.