Better safe, than sorry

POLICE and fire chiefs have warned about the dangers of playing with fireworks after three Oldham teenagers were hospitalised.

An 18-year-old had to have emergency surgery on his hand after a firework was thrown at him.

That followed an incident when a 13-year-old suffered injuries to his hand when he picked up a lit firework which had landed near to him and an accident when a teenager was treated for burns on his leg after a banger went off in his pocket.

In another incident, an 11-year-old girl suffered minor burns to her top lip after a firework was thrown at her by a group of boys.

Operation Treacle has been launched to stamp out trouble before and during Bonfire Night and Greater Manchester Police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have repeated its message of never fooling with fireworks.

Officers have already seized a number of fireworks from young people, including more than 300 illegal bangers.

Chief Inspector Haydn Roberts said: “I cannot emphasise enough the consequences of playing around with fireworks. These individuals could easily have suffered very severe burns or in some cases even lost a limb.

“I would urge young people to act responsibly and if you or your friends even think about buying fireworks then please remember what has happened to these young people.

“My advice for a safe and enjoyable Bonfire Night is to respect others, use fireworks responsibly and attend an organised event.”

Patrols are continuing through Operation Treacle, a joint initiative between police officers, fire fighters, youth workers from Oldham’s Challenge and Support Team and Trading Standards officers.

New legislation means that those under 18 face an £80 fine if they are in possession of a firework.

Patrol Vehicles
There will be dedicated firework safety patrol vehicles and Trading Standards will carry out test purchases at off-licenses to stop underage drinking and prevent the sale of fireworks to under 18s.

Kevin Talbot, Oldham Borough Commander for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Fireworks are not toys, and when misused can leave young people with horrific, life altering injuries, or even kill.

“We would urge everyone to attend an organised display this autumn, but if you want to have your own display make sure you follow the Fireworks Code. For information on local organised bonfires and general firework safety visit www.safe4autumn.com.”