Firework inspections underway as Bonfire Night approaches

With just weeks to go until Bonfire Night, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has been out and about in the community inspecting premises storing fireworks to help keep the public safe.

GMFRS is working in partnership with Greater Manchester Police and Trading Standards to ensure that anyone applying or registering for a licence is complying with regulations.

GMFRS' Petroleum and Explosives Manager, Stuart Morgan, said: "We will be visiting sites between October 15 until November 10 when it will be legal for fireworks to be sold - and anyone not complying with regulations could face prosecution."

Under the Manufacture and Storage of Explosives Regulations 2005, anyone storing fireworks must hold a licence or registration and store them in a safe manner.

GMFRS recently launched a new user-friendly online system for applying and paying for licences and registrations.

The Service receives around 700 paper applications in the weeks leading up to Bonfire Night on 5 November, and the new online system is designed to help eliminate mistakes in the application process.

GMFRS would advise people to attend organised bonfire and fireworks events rather than risk their safety by having a bonfire at home.