Firework warning

FIRE chiefs have launched a shock campaign to bring home the dangers of fireworks.

Billboard posters show the horrific injuries that can be caused, including a young boy left badly disfigured after misusing fireworks.

A radio advert also vividly describes what it is like to be maimed by a firework.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service hopes its “On Reflection” campaign will reduce firework accidents during the bonfire period.

Last year, 26 people were injured by fireworks and nine people were injured in bonfire incidents.

The campaign targets young teenagers, the group most at risk from firework injuries.

Assistant county fire officer for fire safety, Steve Beckley, said: “These adverts will definitely make people think.

“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.

“The image on the poster shows the reality of what we come across every year, the horrible scars these fireworks can leave on a person’s life if they are not used sensibly.”