Enjoy The Sparkle But Stay Safe

Diwali and Bonfire night crackdown

Ealing Council officers and police will be carrying out joint patrols during the run up to Bonfire Night and Diwali and taking action against irresponsible traders.

Council officers will be checking that traders are storing their fireworks safely and only selling them to people over the age of 18. Shops caught selling fireworks to children could be fined up to £5,000. They will also be clamping down on anyone caught selling illegal fireworks or category four products, which are meant only for public displays.

Residents are being reminded that it is an offence to use fireworks between the hours of 11pm – 7am except on designated nights. On Friday, 5 November residents will be allowed to light fireworks until 1am to celebrate Bonfire Night and Diwali.

Fireworks – top tips
Stand well back.
Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a taper.
Do not put fireworks in your pockets.
Never throw fireworks.
Keep fireworks in a closed box in a safe place.
Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
Read instructions with a torch, never a naked flame.
Children using sparklers should be supervised at all times.

Councillor Julian Bell, Leader of Ealing Council, said: “While we want people to enjoy the celebrations we would also remind them to act responsibly and think of others who might not be celebrating and stick to the curfew set by the law. Our officers will be making sure traders are not breaking the law, but residents and visitors to the borough also need to be responsible for their actions. We will take action against anyone causing anti-social behaviour and spoiling the celebrations.”

Pet owners are being reminded to keep their animals inside the house to avoid them getting distressed or injured.

To report a trader who is breaking the law and selling fireworks to children, contact Ealing Trading Standards on 020 8825 6888 or email tradingstandards@ealing.gov.uk. To report the misuse of fireworks, call the police. In an emergency call 999.

November 1, 2010