When do fireworks go on sale? Plus safety advice from Manchester firefighters

Setting fires, throwing fireworks and making hoax calls will not be tolerated this Halloween and Bonfire season, according to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Along with GMP and NWAS they have launched their ‘Bang out of Order’ campaign, asking the public to think carefully about their actions, consider the consequences of getting involved in anti-social behaviour and support the emergency services to help them keep people safe.

The warning comes as it’s revealed that GMFRS dealt with 4,241 deliberate fires and attended 358 hoax calls over the last three years during the Bonfire period alone* (1 September to 10 November).

There have also been 75 attacks on firefighters in the same period, with crews being abused and pelted with rocks and fireworks while trying to keep communities safe.

Friday October 15 marks the day fireworks legally go on sale in the UK and with Government COVID-19 restrictions now lifted, GMFRS – along with other emergency services and local authorities across Greater Manchester - are gearing up for a busy few weeks as people head out to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations.

Local councils have not yet confirmed whether public displays will take place, so GMFRS are asking everyone to follow the the Firework Safety Code:

• Buy fireworks marked CE
• Keep fireworks in a closed metal box
• Follow the instructions on each firework
• Light them at arm’s length using a taper
• Stand well back
• Never go back to a lit firework
• Never put fireworks in your pocket
• Keep a bucket of water nearby if you are setting off fireworks in your garden
• Never throw fireworks
• Keep pets indoors
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix and may lead to injury
• More seasonal safety advice can be found on GMFRS’ website manchesterfire.gov.uk