It is now an offence to:
· possess adult fireworks in a public place if under the age of 18;
· sell fireworks to under 18s;
· set fireworks off after 11 o’clock at night (except on certain dates);
· supply unsafe fireworks that do not comply with the British Standard BS7114; and
· possess a category four firework if you are not a fireworks professional.
Under the Explosives Act 1875, it is also an offence to let off fireworks in a public place.
The new laws were introduced in time for last year’s bonfire night to tackle the anti-social use of fireworks. Supplying unsafe fireworks and fireworks to under 18s carries a maximum penalty of £5000 and/or six months in prison. The other laws are subject to a Penalty Notice for Disorder of £80. The police also now have powers to stop and search young people suspected of carrying fireworks.
Consumer Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said:
“The message is: enjoy the fireworks season, but be safe and responsible. If you are under 18, it is illegal for you to buy fireworks or possess them in public.
“If you are a parent, make sure your children aren’t breaking the law.”
In Merseyside, the police and fire service last year reported a 75% reduction in call-outs to firework related incidents as a direct result of the DTI’s new laws.
John Woodhead, chairman of the British Fireworks Association, said:
“Last fireworks season there was a huge reduction in anti-social behaviour in many neighbourhoods as a direct result of these new laws.
“This reduction of incidents in communities around the country allows police forces to concentrate their resources on the small minority that are responsible for any remaining anti-social behaviour.
“Responsible use of fireworks will keep accidents and anti-social behaviour to a minimum.”
The 11pm curfew for letting off fireworks is extended to midnight on bonfire night.
For full details of the new laws, plus information on fireworks safety, see:
www.dti.gov.uk/fireworks .
For further information on the British Fireworks Association, see:
http://www.b-f-a.org/ 
