THE dangers posed by illegal firework sales are being highlighted in the run-up to Bonfire Night.

Middlesbrough Trading Standards are urging consumers to ensure they only buy fireworks from reputable retailers and be on their guard against people selling fireworks illegally from homes or vans.

Illegal fireworks often do not comply with the required safety standards and can be unstable, posing increased risks of injury and fire.

Illegal fireworks often do not comply with the required safety standards and can be unstable, posing increased risks of injury and fire.

Trading Standards are asking for the public’s help in tracking down the illegal sellers who are the main suppliers of fireworks to children.

Councillor Julia Rostron, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Adult Health and Social Care, said: “In the wrong hands fireworks can maim or even kill. Trading Standards carry out inspections and test purchasing exercises at retail premises to ensure that the goods meet stringent safety standards, are stored safely and that no underage sales are being made.

“It is an offence to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of 18 years old - no reputable dealer would do this. It is particularly worrying that these dangerous goods are being made available to children by unscrupulous sellers.

“Not only do their activities put children at risk of life changing injuries but can also lead to untold misery to local residents from associated anti-social behaviour.”

Anyone with information on illegal firework sales is asked to call the Fireworks Hotline on 01642 728223.