November 2 2002, Cornish Guardian, TEENAGERS ESCAPE AS FIREWORK EXPLODES
Two teenagers from the Westcountry escaped injury when their attempt to customise a firework went disastrously wrong.
The friends were at a house in Galmpton, Devon, when the firework exploded, damaging the kitchen. Fire chiefs say the friends, both aged about 16, could have been seriously hurt or even killed.
Two fire crews from Paignton and Brixham went to the scene at Hill Rise just after midday on Wednesday. The youths, who were in the house alone, had bought the large firework and tried to add sugar and firelighters to it in a bid to make a smoke bomb. The makeshift firework then went off. An area of the floor was damaged.
Sub Officer Dave Passmore said: "These two were extremely lucky, and could have easily lost a limb or their eyesight. Fireworks should never be tampered with in this way and anyone using fireworks should follow the code."
Neither of the two teenagers was hurt. The incident comes only weeks after seven-year-old Laura Ward, from Torquay, was injured in the right leg when a youth hurled a firework at her in Newton Abbot.

November 2 2002, Daily Mirror,  MSP in firework ban call, By HEATHER RAMSAY
AN MSP yesterday called for a ban on the sale of fireworks.
Glasgow Springburn MSP Paul Martin is demanding government action after it was revealed that Scots cops had been called to nearly 2,000 dangerous fireworks incidents with Bonfire Night still three days away. 
Fireworks have been thrown at pedestrians and passing cars and also dropped into the hood of a youngster's jacket.
Mr Martin believes that access to the explosives should now be restricted to licensed experts at controlled fireworks displays.  He said: "The First Minister has already committed himself to introducing tighter regulations for shopkeepers but I want him to go even further. "I'm calling on the Scottish Executive to work with Westminster for a total ban throughout the UK."
Nationalist MSP Sandra White yesterday joined Mr Martin in his campaign. She said: 'No one should underestimate the carnage created by fireworks in the wrong hands."
And last night a Scottish Executive spokesman said a ban could be introduced. 
He added: 'Ministers are in no doubt that the dangerous use of fireworks is becoming an increasing problem and all possible options are now being actively considered."

November 2 2002, Daily Mirror, YOBS IN LETTER BOMB PRANK, By LORE CAMPBELL,
Vandals blew the door off a pillar box by posting a giant firework in it. The explosion was so big that it blasted the door 10 feet across a road, narrowly missing traffic. Last night police in the Borders town of Galashiels were hunting for the idiotic pranksters.
The firecracker destroyed dozens of letters and caused £300 of damage to the mailbox. A spokesman for Lothian & Borders Police said yesterday: "Whoever did this was extremely lucky the firework didn't explode in their hand if they ignited it before putting it in the box. "There could have been a terrible accident if the metal front of the box had hit a passing car or a person walking by."
Police are keeping the remains of the firework for forensic tests and the box, outside Caddonfoot Primary School. has now been repaired.  Neighbours who heard the blast said they didn't think to call police because they are used to hearing fireworks in the run-up to Guy Fawkes night.
A spokeswoman for Royal Mail condemned the vandals. She said: "Any act of vandalism is pointless but this was particularly dangerous. It is a criminal offence and will be taken seriously.  And it does not just affect Royal Mail. It affects anyone who posts a letter.  We would urge anyone who sees someone acting suspiciously around a mailbox to contact the police."
Since fireworks went on sale for this year's Guy Fawkes night, police in Scotland have been called out to over 2,000 firework related incidents. Members of the public have had rockets fired at them and firefighters have been bombarded while on emergency call-outs. 
A police spokesman appealed for witnesses to Monday's post box attack, which took place at around 10pm. He said: "It is likely the person responsible lives in the area and may well be bragging about what they did."

November 2 2002, Evening Post,   RSPCA- WE BACK POST'S CAMPAIGN
The RSPCA is backing the Post's call for a fireworks ban. The animal charity is urging people to "Be Safe Not Sorry" - and wants to see an end to the sale of loud fireworks to the public.
It follows the Post's call for all fireworks to be banned unless they are being used at public displays.
The RSPCA move comes after a survey of its members showed nearly three quarters wanted fireworks only to be allowed at organised displays. Martyn Hubbard, RSPCA superintendent for the East Central region, said: "We are horrified to hear about the number of animals needing emergency care as a result of firework injuries. "We would encourage people to attend public events and we would welcome any effort by the industry to reduce noise levels of fireworks sold for public use."
Just last Saturday, a one-year-old Japanese Akita dog was killed in Shirebrook after it was terrified by a firework.
Kiara was so frightened when one was set off nearby, she bolted from her owner's back yard and ran off. She was found two miles from home, having been hit by a car. She was taken to a vet's, but had a broken spine and died of her injuries.  RSPCA animal collection officer Suzi Whittall attended the scene, and traced the family through the dog's microchip. She said: "Kiara's death was tragic and unnecessary. This incident was one of four road traffic accidents involving animals that I attended on Saturday night. All were believed to be caused by fireworks."
Kiara's owner, who did not want to be named, said: "I am angry and very upset by what has happened. If only these people warned others when they were going to let off fireworks, I would have taken Kiara inside and this would never have happened."
Last year, 4,825 animals were treated for firework-related injuries. They included guide dog Neisha, who had to be sedated after she was so badly affected by a firework set off near her. Owner Jenny Hollingworth, 23, from Bulwell, was left stranded at home while Neisha had to retrained for six weeks.
She said: "I don't expect a world without fireworks, but I hope people will use them responsibly so that myself and other guide dog owners can also enjoy Bonfire Night."
The RSPCA is now trying to establish a maximum noise level for fireworks, which would not cause distress for animals.
Today between 10.30am and 12.30pm outside Marks and Spencer in the city centre, city councillor Kevin Mulloy will urge shoppers to sign a petition to curb the sale of fireworks. He said: "From campaign activities this year, I estimate about 50% of the population over 16 would support a total ban and the rest want more restrictions."

November 2 2002, Express and Star, Firework attack on family with baby
A baby and its parents escaped unhurt when a lit firework was pushed through their letterbox. The firework singed the carpet and a curtain and left the house in Church Street, Hagley, full of smoke.
The incident happened at 10.40pm on Thursday. No-one was injured but Kidderminster Police spokeswoman PC Becky Marsh said the occupiers had expressed their distress at the attack, in view of the fact that a baby was there.  She said: "Police are following up a number of enquiries to locate the offenders, and are keen to speak to anyone who has experienced a similar incident in the area or anyone who has any information."

November 2 2002, icCoventry - Ensure your pets are safe not sorry
Animal experts are warning pet owners to ensure their cats and dogs are kept safe this bonfire night.
Senior veterinary surgeon Kurt Vandamme, of the PDSA PetAid hospital, in Barker Butts, Coventry, said: "Every year PDSA hospitals are faced with a range of firework-related injuries. "Pets don't enjoy this time of year because they don't understand that the loud noises and explosions are supposed to be entertaining. "All pets see is a very frightening situation that seems to have come out of the blue.  "If you know that your pet is particularly nervous when faced with the noise and flash of fireworks, then consult your vet now for advice. "There are many new products available to help dogs and cats overcome noise and firework phobia and one could be right for your pet."
Mr Vandamme says that the best practice is to exercise dogs during the day before the fireworks begin. Once the noise begins, make them feel secure by drawing the curtains and allow them to listen to the familiar sound of a TV or radio.
Don't be tempted to fuss over your dog and just give it a place to hide and then allow it to emerge in its own time.
He also advises caged-animal owners to if possible bring their rabbits or guinea pigs inside for the evening.
Cat owners are also advised to make sure their pet is inside as, unfortunately, they act as a prime target for abuse over the firework season. Mr Vandamme added: "Before lighting the bonfire, don't forget to check for small animals which may have taken refuge there. "Hedgehogs in particular have been discovered in the middle of bonfires, which have burrowed in for shelter. "Always look before you light your fire."

November 2 2002, Leeds Today, Bonfire safety plea
REVELLERS across the region are being urged to put safety first when organising bonfire parties this weekend.
In a bid to cut the number of firework injuries, the Government, Fire Service and The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents are encouraging people to go to large organised events.
Last year firework injuries across the country rose by 40 per cent to 1,362 - the worst statistics since 1995. RoSPA says the best way of reducing this figure is for people to attend properly organised public displays.
Sarah Colles of RoSPA said: "The big displays are much safer and provide excellent value for money. But if people do have to have fireworks at home, they need to plan very carefully, read instructions and follow the firework code."
The RSPCA is worried about the effect fireworks have on pets and says they must be kept indoors to avoid the loud noises which frighten animals.

November 2 2002, Leicester Mercury,  FOXES BACKING THE FIREWORK CAMPAIGN
Stars from Leicester City have backed a campaign that aims to reduce firework nuisance in Leicester.
The players took a break from training to remind people to think of their neighbours before setting off fireworks late at night.  "Fireworks are a great way to celebrate Diwali and Bonfire Night - but let's keep them for these special occasions," said midfielder Darren Eadie. "Unfortunately fireworks stop being a pleasure when they go off for days on end particularly when they're set off late at night. Our message is: please use fireworks with care, and think about the effect they'll have on people and pets in your neighbourhood. "Always be safe with fireworks and go to an organised display."
Leicester City are backing the City Council's "Bang" campaign - a hard-hitting poster campaign launched in the city last month. The Council launched the campaign in response to complaints from the public about firework nuisance. The Council are lobbying Parliament for a change in the law to ban the sale of noisy fireworks.

November 2 2002, ManchesterOnline, A killer for sale
A giant firework that could easily kill or be converted into a bomb - yet it can be bought over the counter in Greater Manchester for just £20.  Explosive experts say the 1,500 Shot Strato Storm, which is manufactured in China, would easily kill a child, but we bought it at a shop less than half a mile from Manchester city centre - no questions asked.
Anyone aged 18 or over can walk into Bad Guys firework store, near Strangeways, and buy Category Three fireworks like this. Its explosive power is only slightly less than display fireworks, which cannot be sold to anyone who does not have explosives training.  Incredibly, anyone can set up a shop selling these fireworks for just a £13 registration fee.
Greater Manchester Fire Service explosives expert Paul Sherman said: "This is available to the public even though, strictly speaking, it's a display firework. There's a significant amount of explosive in it. If the same amount of explosive charge was used in a different way it would create a bomb which would cause significant injuries and fatalities.  "Anyone with a small amount of knowledge of explosives could do a lot of damage with this, yet this is legally available."
The Manchester Evening News has launched a campaign to ban the sale of fireworks to the public following a 50 per cent leap in the number of young people injured or disfigured by fireworks last year. We have also banned fireworks adverts. Station officer Sherman said a worrying trend has developed over the last 10 years that has seen more powerful fireworks on sale to the public. He said: "There's a loophole for this type of thing to be freely available. A young child would easily be killed by one of these."
Abdul Rauf, owner of Bad Guys, said: "We do not sell to anyone unless we know them, usually wholesale. These fireworks will be discontinued next year."

November 2 2002, Manchester online,  Stay Safe Campaign
Why is it that fireworks are being allowed to be used at any time during the year and by anyone. Why am I woken up by fireworks at 03:00 in the morning? Why are my kids unable to sleep for 2 weeks because fireworks are being set off at random times? Why is it that my tax money is being used to pay for stupid people to be treated after they nearly kill themselves with fireworks? Why aren't firework sales restricted to professionally organised displays only? I hereby grant permission to use my comments in any form so long as I am notified before publication and full credit is given.
M. J. Oxford

November 2 2002, This is Devon, Teenagers Escape As Firework Explodes
Two teenagers from the Westcountry escaped injury when their attempt to customise a firework went disastrously wrong.  The friends were at a house in Galmpton, Devon, when the firework exploded, damaging the kitchen. Fire chiefs say the friends, both aged about 16, could have been seriously hurt or even killed.
Two fire crews from Paignton and Brixham went to the scene at Hill Rise just after midday on Wednesday. The youths, who were in the house alone, had bought the large firework and tried to add sugar and firelighters to it in a bid to make a smoke bomb. The makeshift firework then went off. An area of the floor was damaged.
Sub Officer Dave Passmore said: "These two were extremely lucky, and could have easily lost a limb or their eyesight. Fireworks should never be tampered with in this way and anyone using fireworks should follow the code."
Neither of the two teenagers was hurt. The incident comes only weeks after seven-year-old Laura Ward, from Torquay, was injured in the right leg when a youth hurled a firework at her in Newton Abbot.

November 2 2002, This is Lancashire, Airbombs attack sparks demand for firework ban
A COUNCILLOR today called for a by-law to ban the sale of fireworks after she was bombarded with air bombs in her car. Lanehead councillor Paula Riley called for members of Burnley Council's Executive to support the request for Lancashire County Council to introduce a by-law to ban the sale of fireworks in shops.
She was pelted with air bombs as she was driving home along Briercliffe Road.
Paula, 56, said: "It was a terrifying experience having explosives thrown at you. I contacted the police who spoke to the youths, but these are lethal weapons when they get into the wrong hands.  "These were only young children of about ten or 11 who just thought it was a bit of fun - but fun can turn into disaster when you play with fire and it will only be a matter of time before somebody is seriously injured or killed. "If I was older or of a nervous disposition I would have swerved my car and caused a serious accident which is no fun in anybody's mind."
"Elderly people have been confined to their own homes because they are frightened to go out and animals are also suffering. "This council has got to get tough on this subject, we put things off and put them off until somebody is seriously injured. We should listen to what other town councils are doing and follow their lead by introducing a by-law to prevent their sale."
Paula has appealed to the County Council to introduce a by-law that prevents the sale of fireworks before November 1 and which can only be sold to official organisers.
Paula added: "I don't want to be a stick-in-the mud but we have been pestered by the banging since September which is not on. At least this way youngsters will still have fun but it will be a lot safer."

November 2 2002, This is Lancashire, Bonfire Night a useless ritual
HOW many older readers or pet owners with timid animals are heartily sick of the nightly repeated explosions from banger fireworks that go on incessantly? Notice it is always bangers or rockets, never displays that are pleasing to the eye.  Many years ago when my son was very young he was a patient in Accrington Victoria Hospital. On November 5, my wife and I purchased some fireworks to light outside the window of the children's ward.  Imagine our shock and horror to visit the ward and find beds down the corridor, and on inquiring why we were told by the ward sister that this was a precaution every year because of the high casualty risk.
There and then I vowed that I would bring my children up to only attend supervised firework displays or spend the money on a little treat. I don't know if this practice still goes on at hospitals but I should imagine that the accident rate has increased tremendously since those early years. So why in heavens name is November 5 still with us?
It is a senseless ritual with no modern significance.
F. C. Accrington.

November 2 2002, This is Nottingham,  RSPCA- WE BACK POST'S CAMPAIGN
The RSPCA is backing the Post's call for a fireworks ban.
The animal charity is urging people to "Be Safe Not Sorry" - and wants to see an end to the sale of loud fireworks to the public. It follows the Post's call for all fireworks to be banned unless they are being used at public displays.
The RSPCA move comes after a survey of its members showed nearly three quarters wanted fireworks only to be allowed at organised displays.
Martyn Hubbard, RSPCA superintendent for the East Central region, said: "We are horrified to hear about the number of animals needing emergency care as a result of firework injuries. "We would encourage people to attend public events and we would welcome any effort by the industry to reduce noise levels of fireworks sold for public use."
Just last Saturday, a one-year-old Japanese Akita dog was killed in Shirebrook after it was terrified by a firework.
Kiara was so frightened when one was set off nearby, she bolted from her owner's back yard and ran off. She was found two miles from home, having been hit by a car. She was taken to a vet's, but had a broken spine and died of her injuries.
RSPCA animal collection officer Suzi Whittall attended the scene, and traced the family through the dog's microchip. She said: "Kiara's death was tragic and unnecessary. This incident was one of four road traffic accidents involving animals that I attended on Saturday night. All were believed to be caused by fireworks."
Kiara's owner, who did not want to be named, said: "I am angry and very upset by what has happened. If only these people warned others when they were going to let off fireworks, I would have taken Kiara inside and this would never have happened."
Last year, 4,825 animals were treated for firework-related injuries. They included guide dog Neisha, who had to be sedated after she was so badly affected by a firework set off near her. Owner Jenny Hollingworth, 23, from Bulwell, was left stranded at home while Neisha had to retrained for six weeks.
She said: "I don't expect a world without fireworks, but I hope people will use them responsibly so that myself and other guide dog owners can also enjoy Bonfire Night."
The RSPCA is now trying to establish a maximum noise level for fireworks, which would not cause distress for animals.
Today between 10.30am and 12.30pm outside Marks and Spencer in the city centre, city councillor Kevin Mulloy will urge shoppers to sign a petition to curb the sale of fireworks. He said: "From campaign activities this year, I estimate about 50% of the population over 16 would support a total ban and the rest want more restrictions."

November 1 2002, BBC News,  Email of the week, banning fireworks
Calls to ban the sale of fireworks to the general public have produced a huge response in our inbox this week.  Here, Chris Lovitt, from London explains why he feels they should no longer be sold in corner shops, Four stitches to my eye - this is the cost to me of fireworks this year.  Two rockets were fired at me whilst I was cycling to work on Sunday at 7pm.  There were sixteen youths, all under 16, and two fireworks.  Each year an increasing number of places become no-go areas for pedestrians and cyclists during October and November. Ban firework sales from corner shops and limit them to large, reputable dealers. Turning London into Beirut every year is not acceptable.
C. L. London

November 1 2002, BBC News, Should we ban Fireworks?
Jules Botfield reported live from Manchester, where they've been campaigning for a ban on over the counter firework sales. Paul Horrocks who edits the Manchester Evening News, has been campaigning for a ban on over the counter firework sales to the general public.  "Year after year, hundreds of people are injured by fireworks," said: "We've just reported on the case of a pregnant woman who had a firework thrown through her letterbox.
"She lost her baby."
Retailer Clive Knott sells fireworks for large, organised displays.  He told us: "We only sell to over-18s. It's the responsibility of adults to make sure that fireworks don't fall into the hands of children."

November 1 2002, Burton Mail - Firework 'could have killed OAPs'
A GROUP of pensioners could have been killed when yobs threw a lit firework into a bowling club pavilion during a cribbage club meeting, it is claimed.  Firefighters and bowling club members have condemned the missile attack, which happened at Stretton Bowling Club on Tuesday evening.  The club, in Bitham Lane, has been targeted many times by vandals, but the latest incident - when between 15 and 20 pensioners were inside the room - is one of the worst attacks.
The yobs opened the door, threw the large lit firework inside and ran off. The firework burned the carpet, filled the room with smoke and left the cribbage players terrified. Club treasurer Roy Prescott said: "In my mind this is attempted arson, attempted murder and criminal damage. "Luckily, nobody was injured but the firework could have set somebody's leg on fire, blinded somebody, set the building on fire or even worse killed somebody."
The club was also subjected to vandalism attacks at the weekend with windows broken, paint thrown across a corner of the green, memorial benches stolen and work surfaces caved in.
Mr Prescott said the small club cannot afford to keep repairing the damage and the club's insurance premium keeps rising. He said: "We were very lucky the firework fizzled out and only burned the carpet. This is just a laugh to the youths, but to the people inside it was very frightening to be that close to a burning firework."
Sub officer Allen Kimber, of Burton Fire Station, said this was the first time he had heard about a firework being thrown into a room.  He said: "We do get problems during the run-up to Bonfire Night, but this incident is very foolish. People don't realise the potential problems this could have caused.  "The firework could have shot off into the room and left people with severe burns or eye injuries. It could have even been fatal or set the building alight. "This type of behaviour is incredibly foolish and could have injured a lot of people."

November 1 2002, Courier co uk, PITY FOR MORONIC FIREWORK MINORITY
It appears to be that time of year again, when the sad, rather moronic minority decide to inflict the loathsome sound and noise of fireworks on the surrounding residents of Pembury and beyond.
Walking my German Shepherd up the village at the weekend, the first of the year's early fireworks events was under way, with accompanying bonfire. A bizarre choice of evening, given the 30mph winds had the unnerving effect of blowing rockets and other pyrotechnics into the road and footway from the offending residence.
Once again the rather mindless and socially challenged of the community decide to inflict on others their own effort of personal publicity. I suppose the next event to look forward to is the erection of the vulgar and crass lights and decorations adorning the same homes in the run-up to the festive period.
Given the forward planning, I expect to see them up within the coming days.  Oh well, little boys and little toys, as the saying goes. The rest of us watch on with amazed laughter at the individuals concerned with sympathy and in pity rather than annoyance.
J. D. Pembury

November 1 2002, Courier co uk, TEMPERS ROCKET AT FIREWORK FRENZY
I write this on the evening of October 24?-?some two weeks away from Bonfire Night, and yet for the past week Otford has been enduring brief, but loud, sporadic firework sessions.
Tonight's fireworks at the unwelcome time of 9.30pm lasted 15 minutes, during which time they put my dog into a catatonic state (he was outside at the time as we weren't expecting an October 24 firework display) and also woke my young daughter.
I have to say I enjoy fireworks and Bonfire Night. I even understand that there will be fireworks the weekend before, and the weekend after November 5, and ensure my pets are safe inside for all those nights.
I'm afraid, however, that I find it utterly thoughtless and selfish of people to let fireworks off for weeks before and after Bonfire Night. I say to these people: "Please think of the pets that can quite literally die of fright, and the parents of babies and young children who have enough sleepless nights without a month of fireworks bombardment. Shopkeepers too - please make sure of the age of your firework purchaser."
F. A. Otford

November 1 2002, East Lothian Courier Sixteen youths charged after trouble on firework express
Sixteen youths have now been charged with offences including assault and riotous behaviour following the gang fighting which terrorised passengers on an Edinburgh to North Berwick 'fireworks special' train recently.
The youths, aged between 15 and 20 and from the Prestonpans area, were allegedly traced after an extensive investigation by a team from the British Transport Police.

November 1 2002, Evening Post,    MP TAKES ON BLAIR OVER FIREWORKS
A Notts MP has called on Tony Blair to take urgent action to deal with firework misuse.  Nick Palmer, who supports the Post Be Safe not Sorry campaign, challenged Mr Blair during Prime Minister's Question Time.
He demanded tougher legislation to deal with youngsters who throw fireworks. Earlier this week ministers refused to support the Post's call for a ban on the sale of fireworks to the public, unless part of an organised display.
Instead it said its on-the-spot fines for the over-18s who are misusing fireworks was enough action to take.
But Mr Palmer, who sponsored a bill to ban the sale of fireworks earlier this year, disagrees.
Tackling the Prime Minister during a packed Commons session he said: "I very much welcome the package of measures on fireworks announced including the spot fines for offenders who throw fireworks and cause alarm on the streets. But under current legislation that we've inherited this can only be applied to those over 18."
He joked: "I have to say in Broxtowe though we have met the problem of pensioners throwing fireworks at each other, we need legislation against teenagers. "Will you commit to new legislation to curb the scourge of fireworks?"
Mr Blair replied that the government believed that fixed penalty notices, currently being piloted in three areas, were successful.
But he conceded: "The only worry that the police have in the work that they've done with them is they don't think they extend to a wide enough category of offences so we're looking carefully at that with a view to legislation coming up in the Queen's Speech." Mr Palmer said it was vital the legislation was changed to include under-18s.
He also called for the Post's ban on the sale of fireworks to be implemented as well.  "The police have to be given powers to unbureaucratically stop and fine people of any age who are causing trouble," he added.
He said that if young offenders couldn't afford to pay fines their parents would have to.
In a House of Commons debate on Wednesday Consumer Affairs Minister Melanie Johnson said she was "sympathetic" to the plight of members of the public who are upset by the noise nuisance and danger."
However she stopped short of backing a complete ban, which the Post is calling for.
"We are well aware that some people believe we should go further to protect the public by banning the sale of fireworks. But we don't believe the case has been made for banning the sale of fireworks and limiting the use of fireworks to organised displays," she told MPs.

November 1 2002, Evening Standard, Halloween 'monsters' target buses
Trick or treaters bombarding buses and householders with eggs and flour kept police busy and caused misery for thousands.  Police across the South-East reported a 66 per cent increase in 999 calls from people abused by Halloween revellers. Thames Valley police received so many calls for help the 999 system was blocked.
In many parts of London and the South-East householders found themselves the target of attacks from flour bombs and fireworks when they refused to pay up.  The areas worst affected were Woolwich, in south-east London, and East Ham, where buses were the target of sustained attacks over a three-hour period. No one was hurt in the attacks which continued for much of the evening.
Police in Surrey received 70 calls in four hours. One came from a householder in Godalming who had a lit firework thrown through her letterbox by disgruntled trick or treaters.

November 1 2002, Greenock Telegraph Online, Police crackdown over fireworks
POLICE have launched a crackdown on offences involving fireworks.  They are warning that anyone who allows under 18s unsupervised use of fireworks faces prosecution.  And in the run up to Guy Fawkes night on Tuesday they are visiting all shops in Inverclyde which sell fireworks.
Inspector Tom Doran, of the Community Policing Unit, said: "We have not had the same volume of complaints involving fireworks being set off in the streets this year - and we want to make sure it stays that way."  He revealed that the visit to shops is to ensure that fireworks are safely and correctly stored.
The police officers also make sure that retailers are aware of the law in relation to the sale of fireworks.
Inspector Doran added: "It is important that everyone knows the law and adheres to it. The police do not want to be spoilsports but every year fireworks cause serious injury and distress to many people and animals when they are misused - particularly by children.  "It is illegal to sell fireworks to under 18s, but everyone knows that children are able to obtain fireworks by asking adults to purchase them on their behalf."  He pledged that any reports of people selling fireworks to under 18s or abusing fireworks will be rigorously investigated by the police.

November 1 2002, icBerkshire, Citizens demand action on fireworks Nov 1 2002
AN MP has urged residents to 'play it safe' on Guy Fawkes night as part of a campaign to reduce fire-works-related injuries. Slough's Fiona Mactaggart joined Parliamentary colleagues to hand over a 200,000-signature petition to the Prime Minister. The campaigners want Tony Blair's government to create tighter controls on fireworks. Miss Mactaggart said: "Fireworks, wrongly used, can kill and maim. Last year 787 children were injured by fireworks, and the number of injuries among young teenagers rose by more than 50 per cent - the biggest increase for seven years. "Three quarters of accidents happened at family displays or in the streets. I want Slough people to be safe and to enjoy their fireworks displays on November 5."
The campaign coincides with the Department of Trade and Industry's recent proposals to ban air bombs and mini-rockets; a crack-down on illegal markets in fireworks; and a new drive to encourage local councils to use their powers to curb the problem of noise and nuisance from fireworks.
Miss Mactaggart, who has welcomed the proposals, said she also backed Home Office plans to fine over 18s £40 if they were caught throwing fireworks in the street.  She added: "And I will continue to press for further regulation of fireworks so that they can be enjoyed safely in organised displays on traditional days such as Guy Fawkes Night, Dusshera and Diwali, so that other people can plan ahead, look after their pets and not have their lives blighted by continual fireworks displays and by unpredictable noises in the streets."
Meanwhile, The Child Accident Prevention Trust is warning parents of the dangers sparklers pose to children under five. Katrina Phillips, chief executive of the trust said: "When lit, sparklers can get six times as hot as a pan of cooking oil and last year hospitals treated 136 injuries caused by sparklers - 98 of which were burns to children under five.  "The fact is that children under five years old are too young to be allowed anywhere near fireworks and that includes sparklers.  "Our advice to parents is to never risk giving sparklers to children because they don't understand how to use them safely. Children's skin is much more sensitive than adults so burns can be a lot more severe for them." The trust also stresses the importance of supervision of children by parents and carers.

November 1 2002, icBirmingham - Cul-de-sac of terror
Gangs of youths using a quiet cul-de-sac as a shortcut are plaguing residents by hurling bricks and fireworks at their homes. People living in Pine Walk, Northfield, say they are being targeted by thugs who cut through an alleyway behind the properties.  They have had their car and house windows smashed, bricks thrown at patio doors, fireworks set off at windows and eggs thrown.
One resident - who did not want to be named for fear of reprisal - said: "Both young and elderly people who live in the area are being subjected to sleepless nights and worry. "This is supposed to be a desirable area and people passing through are ruining it. Why should we suffer because of mindless idiots?"
Insp Gary Campbell, from Longbridge police station, said about 30 incidents had been reported in the past ten months. "To the young people involved I would say behave or stay away from this area," he said.  "Officers are carrying out both high visibility and covert patrols. Anybody caught committing offences within the area will be arrested and prosecuted."
Police and the residents are hoping for a fence and security gates to be put up to help protect the homes.
A Birmingham City Council spokeswoman said council officers have been talking with local councillors about a way to solve the problem.

November 1 2002, icCheshireOnline - Horse bolted into barbed fence after firework display
EXPLODING fireworks sent a terrified horse bolting through a barbed wire fence and left its owner with a £400 vets' bill. Leonora (Leo) McKenna, of Little Budworth, claims bosses at Oulton Park, Tarporley, should foot the bill as they didn't warn her they would be hosting a firework display.  Because she was unaware of the display Mrs McKenna left Chippy, a two-year-old horse was left out in the open. Now she is urging people to consider animals during the run up to bonfire night after Chippy received a deep wound to his leg.
'Chippy was terrified,' Mrs McKenna said: 'He was so frightened he took flight. I was inside and could hear him screaming from the field. 'When I went outside to see him, he was stuck to the fence. My husband had gone out and I had to try and prise Chippy away from the barbed wire by myself.  'It 's no wonder Chippy was scared - even I wondered what on earth was going on from inside the house.'
The incident happened on the night Oulton Park hosted a 50th anniversary party for Roberts' Bakery.
Chippy was in a field in Little Budworth, which is about a mile away. Mrs McKenna said she and her husband John are looking after the horse as a favour to their daughter Cheryl, 32, of Winsford who is pregnant.  Mrs McKenna, 52, said she hopes bosses at Oulton Park will accept liability and pay for Chippy's veterinary treatment. She said: 'We didn't know to take the animals inside as they didn't tell us. They say they liaised with the parish council, the police and the fire service. But what about residents? 'The vet bills will probably come up to at least £400. Chippy's cut was very deep and he had to keep going back and forth to the vets', Mrs McKenna continued. 'He is being treated at home now. But we still have to keep him inside, which means added expenses for his bedding and feed. He isn't playing out on the field like nature intended.'
Mrs McKenna said Chippy was not the only animal affected by the display: 'I know a woman whose horse was so frightened he ran straight through her five-bar gate. I know Oulton Park have received a lot of complaints about that event, and it's not surprising.
Ruth Wicks, a spokesman for Oulton Park, said: 'We sent letters to the parish council, Vale Royal Borough Council and an environment representative. 'We wrote letters to as many individual residents we had on our books. Warnings of two 30-minute displays were also featured in the parish magazine. I really don't know what else we could do.'

November 1 2002, icHuddersfield - Blast wrecks phone box
VANDALS wrecked a phone box by blowing it up with a powerful firework.
The explosion - possibly caused by a rocket - demolished the box at Spen Lane in Gomersal and sent glass flying across the road. Now police want anyone with information about the blast between 7.30pm and 8.45pm on Wednesday to come forward.
PC Nicholas Omelia, of Dewsbury police, said: "It is extremely fortunate that no-one was injured by the flying glass as the area was quite busy at the time with passing traffic and people. "Someone must know who is responsible for this dangerous prank."
Anyone with information should contact PC Omelia via the Dewsbury police helpdesk on 01924 431059.

November 1 2002, icHuddersfield - It's info only on police's special phone hotline
POLICE have again reminded people that the Stop the Yobs telephone hotline is for giving information only.
Officers set up the answerphone hotline so people can leave messages giving the names and addresses of problem youths. But many people are ringing the hotline about incidents as they actually happen, instead of calling 999 or the Huddersfield police station helpdesk.  One person left a message to say youths were throwing fireworks at each other and urged police to come immediately.  But police only check the answer service every few hours.
Officers have listened to 100 calls - but only one of them left the name of a problem youth.
The Stop The Yobs campaign was launched by the Examiner and West Yorkshire police, to urge people to give details about vandalism, graffiti and anti-social behaviour.  But officers are urging people who see a crime and want police to come out to dial 999.  People can also ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or the Huddersfield helpdesk on 01484 436659.  People wanting to complain about persistent problems with gangs of unruly youths and those creating fear in their area should call the hotline on 0500 040999.
Callers are urged to leave their name, address and contact phone number. They should pass on information about problems in their area, descriptions of the youths and, if possible, their names and addresses.

November 1 2002, icSolihull - Perils and pleasures of Fawkes
THERE'S no mistaking the time of year. The air is already full of the crack and bang of fireworks, and rather like Christmas, Fireworks Night seems to start earlier and earlier. I love firework displays particularly because we didn't have fireworks when I was growing up as we lived in a thatched cottage and it was considered too much of a fire risk. I do remember on one occasion some lads posting one through the letter box and it landing on my poor dog who was lying on the mat the other side. And that's the trouble with them, they can be lethal in the wrong hands. Friends of mine came home one November 5 to see their house in flames. The fire had been started by a firework similarly posted through the letter box as a 'joke'.
Then again I remember one Guy Fawkes party that I carefully arranged to be bang free and child friendly. After my gentle display of Roman Candles and the like, I was greeted by a sea of disappointed faces, the boys complaining loudly that it was a rubbish display as there had been no bangs.
As in so many things it's a question of balance. There is something quite special about watching a well organised display of fireworks and there is the added glow that they can be good fund raisers for all sorts of causes.
But before I get too carried away I have to mention the down side too.
Although injuries from fireworks are falling year by year, according to DTI figures the number of injuries among young teenagers rose by more than 50 per cent in 2001.
Animals are terrified and some older people hide behind closed doors until it's all over for another year.
This year too if the fire fighters do decide to strike on the weekends before and after Guy Fawkes night, which is still on the cards as I write, the dangers will of course increase. In fact many local authorities have decided against displays this year for that very reason.
Some Fire Brigades are advising people not to hold private displays in their gardens at all, but to attend properly organised public displays instead.
I was looking at some of the legislation surrounding fireworks. It's illegal to sell them to people under the age of 18 and for fireworks to be thrown or discharged in the street, the maximum fine in both cases is £5,000. From all the evidence it would seem that these regulations are being circumvented.
Last available figures reveal that in 2000, only 61 people were proceeded against for throwing fireworks. And it might surprise you to learn that since the Fireworks (safety) Regulations of 1997 ALL bangers are now banned. Laws that don't work in practice are bad laws.
Mrs Caroline Spelman MP

November 1 2002, icWales - Halloween terror
POLICE were last night swamped with more than 2,500 complaints about trick or treaters Egg throwing, fireworks and other pranks were reported as youngsters went on the rampage. South Wales Police have issued an apology to the public if they had difficulty in lodging complaints but thanked them for their patience.
POLICE officers in the Vale of Glamorgan dealt with more than 120 Halloween-related calls last night.
They had to cope with large gangs of youths throwing eggs and fireworks in the Barry Island, Cold Knap and Romilly Park areas.

November 1 2002, Kent & Sussex Courier - TEMPERS ROCKET AT FIREWORK FRENZY
I write this on the evening of October 24?-?some two weeks away from Bonfire Night, and yet for the past week Otford has been enduring brief, but loud, sporadic firework sessions.  Tonight's fireworks at the unwelcome time of 9.30pm lasted 15 minutes, during which time they put my dog into a catatonic state (he was outside at the time as we weren't expecting an October 24 firework display) and also woke my young daughter.
I have to say I enjoy fireworks and Bonfire Night. I even understand that there will be fireworks the weekend before, and the weekend after November 5, and ensure my pets are safe inside for all those nights.
I'm afraid, however, that I find it utterly thoughtless and selfish of people to let fireworks off for weeks before and after Bonfire Night. I say to these people: "Please think of the pets that can quite literally die of fright, and the parents of babies and young children who have enough sleepless nights without a month of fireworks bombardment. Shopkeepers too - please make sure of the age of your firework purchaser."
F. A. Otford

November 1 2002, Leeds Today, Blitzed
HOOLIGANS have caused havoc for hundreds of people by blowing up a postbox with a firework. The post box on the corner of Elford Grove and Harehills Road, outside the Elford Grove Post Office, exploded after a firework was posted through it on Monday evening. Avril Barton is one of the hundreds who have been affected by the vandalism. "It has caused me enormous problems," said Mrs Barton, an entertainment agent. "The post box is used by many people in Harehills and if the post office is closed you have to go on a bus journey to another one.
"I dread to think what may have been in the postbox when it was blown up, let alone the hassle it will cause people now."
Mrs Barton, 60, says fireworks being let off prior to Bonfire Night have always been a problem.  But this year she says is "the worst ever."
Royal Mail has urged people to be vigilant in the run-up to Bonfire Night following the latest incident in a series of attacks on a post boxes in the area. A spokeswoman for Royal Mail said: "These vandals are causing criminal damage to our property, destroying mail and seriously inconveniencing all our customers. "This wanton act of vandalism has resulted in boxes being taken out of commission, such is the damage caused. "This will have an impact on services for our customers in the area, and we would like to apologise to them for any inconvenience this may cause.  "We would advise customers in the area to post their mail at the local Post Office branch or to use other nearby post boxes. "We would urge the public to be vigilant in the run-up to Bonfire Night and to report anything suspicious to the police."
Anyone with information can ring police on 08456 060606.
The Yorkshire Evening Post is calling for a ban on sales until 10 days before Bonfire Night.
Our campaign is supported by Leeds MPs, who have signed a Commons motion demanding government action.
Anyone who knows or suspects that a shop is selling fireworks to under-18s should ring the consumer helpline on 0113 3848848.

November 1 2002, Local London, Fewer big bangs next year
AS from next January 1, members of the British Firework Association (BFA), who distribute 95 per cent of all family fireworks in the UK, will no longer supply single tube air bombs and small whistle/bang rockets which have been much misused during recent years.
This action will result in more than 30 million loud bangs being removed from the market each year.
The BFA is working closely with the DTI (consumer safety) to create a quieter and safer November 5.
Our product is as safe as any in the world and is used safely, without causing an offence to others, by over ten million people each year.
Our air bomb and small rocket ban is aimed at the hooligan minority who give fireworks a bad name.
John Woodhead, Chairman, British Fireworks Association

November 1 2002, ManchesterOnline, Firework Safety drive paying off
OUR firework safety message is getting through - an undercover operation snared only four shopkeepers selling fireworks to children. Trading Standards officers in Warrington trapped the traders by sending specially-trained under-age volunteers into their shops. Now the four offences are being investigated to decide whether the shopkeepers should be prosecuted for selling fireworks to anyone apparently under the age of 18.
The Manchester Evening News is campaigning for a total ban on over-the-counter sales to prevent the rising tide of injuries and nuisance. We are calling for displays to be restricted to authorised venues where they are carried out by trained people, only accept advertising for organised events, and refuse advertising for the sale of fireworks.
Warrington Trading Standards manager Peter Astley said: "There is really no excuse for any trader in Warrington who has broken the law over fireworks - we have repeatedly warned them."
Mr Astley said volunteers went into 50 shops in the town asking for fireworks. They were all young people dressed to look their age.
"We don't let them wear make-up or dress to look older than they are and they all conform to a set procedure," he said. "If a shopkeeper asks how old they are, they will tell him."
Mr Astley said there had been a significant increase in firework-related injuries in recent years.
"We feel that by preventing young people from being able to buy fireworks, it will help to reduce the number of such accidents," he said.

November 1 2002, ManchesterOnline, MP's call to ban rockets
FEARS about the dangers of giant fireworks being sold to the public have been raised in the Commons.
Bolton MP and professional chemist, Dr Brian Iddon, said people could buy rockets of up to six feet long and nine inch "cakes'' of fireworks with multiple charges that go off over a considerable period. "Those are huge explosives and I am alarmed at the size of fireworks on sale to the general public. They should be available only to professional people," said the Bolton South East MP. He called on the government to examine the way fireworks are classified to ensure that some are banned from sale to the general public.
But Dr Iddon said he would not support a total ban on sales to the public, partly because bonfires bring the community together. "In Lancashire there is a tradition of community bonfires, with treacle toffee and black peas," he said. He also said that restricting the sale of fireworks to two weeks before Bonfire Night would be unfair on the Hindu and Chinese communities who celebrate with fireworks at different times of the year.
The consumer minister, Melanie Johnson, told MPs she was concerned about the number of accidents involving fireworks.  She praised cities such as Manchester where trading standards officers worked closely with shopkeepers to restrict the sale of fireworks. "I am sympathetic to those who are distressed by the rogue element that misuses fireworks in public places and sets them off at unreasonable times of the day or night,'' said Ms Johnson.  She said there were restrictions in place, with a ban on the throwing of fireworks in the street and their sale to children under 18 and she told Dr Iddon that certain larger fireworks were not allowed to be sold to the public.

November 1 2002, Manchester online,  Stay Safe Campaign
Sorry Steph, your argument holds NO sway with me whatsoever. It's up to me if I want to buy fireworks and let them off. I DON'T let them off before Nov 5th, I just received three big boxes, a big whistling display wheel, sparklers and a huge German display rocket today by mail order and I'm going to let them off and enjoy them on Tuesday RESPONSIBLY, SAFELY and SENSIBLY being careful where they are angled, I make sure they are secured so they don't tip over while going off and no-one has ever complained to me when I've had fireworks every other year.
A. P. Accrington, Lancashire

November 1 2002, Manchester online, Stay Safe Campaign
Bob, that's a good fact but not true because its not always the under 18 that are letting them off and plus the over 18 sometimes buys them for the under 18 so if they are ban apart from public displays it stops it and brings back the special and not "oh look yet another firework". I love them but I have been hearing them since February and I am sick of it and I'm not going to have my dog upset or upset myself by seeing her drugged up to keep her calm. And look how many more people have been hurt this year to last year its not fair and needs to stop. To Anthony, its people like you who let kids do as they please by saying you are not going to listen to police giving out advice etc.... You are only thinking of yourself and not other people. Even though you think you don't damage animals by letting of fireworks you do because its the noise that scares them so try thinking of other people and animals the next time you let of a firework before the proper day.
S. Manchester

November 1 2002, This is Bradford, RSPCA calls for noise ban after dog is hurt
The RSPCA is backing a campaign to ban loud fireworks from public use after a dog in Shipley was seriously injured. Megan, an 11-year-old crossbreed, was so terrified by the explosions she gnawed through a wooden door and bolted. She was missing for 12 hours on Bonfire Night last year before her owner found her a mile from home and whimpering with fear.  Vet David MacCuish who treated her at Avenue Vet Group in Bingley Road, Shipley, prescribed tranquillisers. "She became so scared, she just ran and lost all sense of direction," he recalled. "It took her a while to calm her down because the noise of the fireworks terrified her."
The RSPCA said 4,825 animals were treated for firework related injuries or shock last year with 16 put down.
Alan Wolinski, regional manager for Yorkshire, said: "We would encourage people to attend public events and we would welcome any effort by the industry to reduce the noise levels of fireworks sold for public use."

November 1 2002, This is Brighton & Hove, Family's Hallowe'en firework shock
A family of four escaped serious injury when youths threw a powerful firework through an open window.  The attack was one of many acts of trick-or-treat terror which kept emergency services busy last night.  Teacher David Etherton, of Ladies Mile Road, Patcham, Brighton, heard a crash and children running away moments before he found the Mega Air Bomb in his downstairs bathroom.  Mr Etherton, deputy head at Southgate West Middle School, Crawley, said: "I went into the bathroom and there was a firework on the windowsill.  "I could smell it so I shut the door, waited for 20 minutes, then went in there and found the firework. It had burned a hole in the sill."
The fuse on the air bomb was burning when it was thrown but the firework did not ignite.
Mr and Mrs Etherton's two young children, aged one and three, were asleep when the firework was thrown.  Firefighters were called at 8pm to remove it.
Police dealt with dozens of other calls from residents who were victims of Hallowe'en pranks. In Graham Avenue, Patcham, fireworks were put into a Royal Mail letter box. They exploded, blowing off the door and scattering post over the street.  In Goldstone Road and Goldstone Crescent, Hove, several residents reported car windows being smashed after they refused to answer their doors.

November 1 2002, this is Bristol - FAMILY ESCAPE IN FIREWORK TERROR
Teenage trick or treaters who put a lit firework in the letterbox of a house in Fishponds have been condemned by police. PC Mark Curran said Karen Pyper and her two young children could have been seriously injured by the actions of the teenagers last night.  Mrs Pyper was at home with her two children Christopher, aged 11, and six year-old Harry when she had her narrow escape. She said: "It was about 5.15pm and there was a knock at the door. "I didn't get as far as the door when I noticed a lit firework had been put in the letterbox and was pointing straight at me. "When it exploded it shot straight across the hallway and scorched the floor. "It was terrifying and the hall was filled with smoke."
The firework - an air bomb - has the power to go 40 yards into the air before exploding.
Mrs Pyper, a supermarket worker, said: "My youngest child was crying. It was disgraceful. "I can't believe someone would do such a thing without thinking of the consequences. "As well as the potential injury to us it could also have hurt the children who lit it." She was so concerned that she called both the police and fire brigade.
Hillfields community police officer PC Mark Curran said the incident in Radley Road was just one of many Halloween problems he was called to deal with in the Fishponds, St George and Speedwell area.
A bag of fireworks, 100 eggs, flour and a number of bottles of alcohol were seized from children as young as 12.
PC Curran said: "It should have been a fun night but was hijacked by teenagers causing problems. Putting a lit firework in a letterbox is a recipe for disaster."
Across Bristol it was a similar story with teenagers throwing eggs and flour at people who refused to give them anything as part of the trick or treat ritual.  PC Curran said he stopped a number of teenagers wearing horror masks who were carrying fireworks, eggs and flour. He said: "The little ones were going round in costume having a good time but the teenagers hijacked it. "In the most serious incidents they were firing fireworks at people. I can't stress enough how dangerous such actions are."

November 1 2002, This is Bristol - GARDEN FIREWORK PARTIES 'TOO RISKY'
Firefighters are urging firework thrill-seekers to attend organised displays during this year's bonfire celebrations.
Avon's Deputy Chief Fire Officer Jerry O'Brien said fireworks were explosives and quite capable of seriously injuring or even killing people. "Last year's dramatic increase in accidents should act as a severe warning to anyone using fireworks this year. People must be aware of the dangers, " he said. "Our advice to people is that if you want to make bonfire night an enjoyable family occasion, then go to an organised display. "If you still want to use fireworks yourself, you must make sure you are familiar with the Firework Code and are completely prepared beforehand." The safety message is particularly aimed at 11-17 year-olds. Injuries to that age group, particularly boys, increased by over 55 per cent over the previous year.
Last year, the number of accidents involving sparklers rose by more than 30 per cent, from 104 to 136.
A sparkler reaches a temperature of up to 2,000C - over 15 times the boiling point of water.
Government statistics also show that the most common firework injuries last year were caused by rockets, up by more than 95 per cent from 135 to 264.
Simon Well, chairman of Fight for Sight, the country's leading charity in the battle against blindness, said: "Over 372 people were left with eye injuries after last year's firework season. Please don't be blind to the dangers of fireworks." Linda Ficker, head of cornea services at the Moorfields Eye Hospital, said:
"Eye injuries from fireworks commonly cause damage to the cornea resulting in ocular surface burns, penetrating injuries with chronic inflammation and an increased risk of cataract and retinal detachment."

November 1 2002, This is Devon, 'Bomb' Prank Boys Escape
Two TEENAGERS escaped injury when their attempt to customise a firework went disastrously wrong. The friends were at a house in Galmpton when the firework exploded, damaging the kitchen.  Fire chiefs say the pals, both aged about 16, could have been seriously hurt or even killed.  Two firecrews from Paignton and Brixham went to the scene at Hill Rise just after midday on Wednesday. The youths, who were in the house alone, had bought the large firework and tried to add sugar and firelighters to it in a bid to make a smoke bomb.
The makeshift firework then went off.
Damage to the kitchen was fortunately confined to a small area of the floor. Sub Officer Dave Passmore said: "These two were extremely lucky and could have easily lost a limb or their eyesight. "Fireworks should never be tampered with in this way and anyone using fireworks should follow the code."
Neither of the two teenagers was hurt.
The incident comes only weeks after seven-year-old Laura Ward, from Torquay, was injured in the right leg when a youth hurled a firework at her in Decoy Country Park in Newton Abbot.

November 1 2002, This is Lancashire, Ban sale of explosives
ONCE again decent law-abiding people have to put up with the curse of firework yobs.
This annual problem could be eliminated by:
1) Banning the sale of what are basically explosives to the general public.
2) Imposing heavy fines or imprisonment on anyone who sets off fireworks in the street.
3) Only allowing the sale of fireworks to organised events on production of a permit.
If we only pull together and make our voices heard, we can beat this problem once and for all.
J. W.  Darwen.

November 1 2002, This is Lancashire, Firework fools spark shop blaze
FIREFIGHTERS have warned about the dangers of fireworks after youths almost sparked a massive blaze.
Two crews were called out to Poplar Street, Blackburn, today when a firework got lodged in the roof a general store causing a small fire.  John Price, owner of John's Cut Price store, spotted the fire as he opened the shop and firefighters were on the scene within minutes. Leading firefighter Dave Hilliard said the small fire was quickly dealt with but the consequences could have been much more severe.
He said: "It was by luck the shop owner was getting to his premises at that time. By the time we arrived the fire was just starting to take hold of the dry timbers in the roof. If it had been only five minutes later the whole roof would have been well alight.  "This just highlights the dangers of fireworks. Youths should not be playing with them and shops should not be selling them."
Mr Hilliard believed youngsters were responsible, although did not think their intentions were to start a fire.
He said the device was let off outside the shop just after 8.30am and part of it got stuck on the roof when it exploded.
Mr Price, who has owned the store for 22 years, said: "I noticed the smoke straight away and thought it was something inside the shop. It was a lucky escape that I came along when I did otherwise the whole shop could have gone up. Fireworks should be banned."  Mr Hilliard said crews had been plagued by incidents involving fireworks and bonfires.
Last night Blackburn crews were called out to nine separate incidents throughout the town - two of which were caused by fireworks.
Mr Hilliard said: "It is a big problem and youths are putting their own lives at risk and that of other members of the public. Bonfires are a nuisance and people should only go to properly organised events."
A firework was placed in a bin at London Road, sparking a blaze, and one was pushed through a the letterbox at a youth club in Manxman Road, setting off the fire alarm.

November 1 2002, This is Lancashire, Firework fun can lead to misery
REGARDING the constant noise of fireworks, have the youngsters setting them off no thought at all for others?
Why do we have to put up with this nuisance night after night. Do they not realise that there are new-born babies and young children to be put to bed each night. Also, our dear elderly people.
These louts have definitely to be given some sort of curfew.
And if they must set their fireworks off, then it should be for one hour only each night, instead of all night long. Some even continue well after midnight, which is utterly ridiculous.
I am just recovering from illness and, along with countless other sick people, can well do without these disturbances at night.
Do their parents know where they are at night? Is their spending money so great that they don't know what to spend it on?
Oh yes, we did buy fireworks as children, but we also had other priorities too. We respected other people, and of course protected our pets as well.
Each year at this time, it is a shame that terrified animals are put through this ordeal.
Dogs and cats should not be put under such pressure, just because these youngsters want some so-called "fun".
Come on youngsters, give a thought to your neighbours and friends, and remember, you will be old yourselves one day, and then I wonder, what will the youngsters have in store for you?
R. S. Accrington.

November 1 2002, This is Lancashire, Mum and baby in fire rescue
A MOTHER who was pulled by firefighters from her smoke-filled home along with her two-month-old baby said today: "Thank god they weren't on strike."
Little Shahab Bi was trapped in the bedroom at the flat above his parents' corner shop in Pringle Street, Blackburn, with his mother Sadia, 24, after a rubbish blaze broke out in the backyard.
The heat was so fierce it cracked a ground floor window and sent smoke billowing into the shop and flat.
When firefighters arrived at 9.30 last night they discovered Shahab and Sadia trapped upstairs. Two firefighters raced in and pulled out the mother and child.
The pair were treated for smoke inhalation at Blackburn Royal Infirmary and later released.
Sadia said today: "I just thank god they weren't on strike otherwise we don't know what would have happened.
"I'm so grateful for what the firefighters did. If they had been on strike I don't think we'd be here today".
Shahab's uncle, Ramat Mohammed, who lives opposite the shop, saw the blaze and rushed over.
He said: "The smoke was very bad and Sadia was very frightened.
"It would have been a lot worse if the firefighters were on strike."
Police and fire chiefs were today investigating the cause of the blaze and are treating it as suspicious.
A fire investigation dog has checked the scene and a firework has not yet been ruled out as a possible cause.
Blackburn leading firefighter Steve Boyne said any industrial action could have had serious consequences for the family.
He said: "It would have been treacherous for the people in the fire if we were on strike. None of us want to be.
"We rushed in through the front and I could hear someone shout 'My wife and child are in there, get them out, get them out.'"
"Myself and firefighter Dave Vose went upstairs and found the baby in the bedroom and the mother in the living room.
"The house was heavily smoke logged and the pair had breathed in quite a lot of smoke. When we got them out, they were treated immediately and taken to hospital."
He said that the consequence of this fire could have been much worse and he said that rubbish should always be kept well away from buildings or removed as soon as possible.
He also said that working smoke alarms should always be fitted and if anyone wants free fire safety advice they should contact Blackburn Fire Station on 01254 52111.

November 1 2002, This is Nottingham, THUGS TARGET FIREFIGHTERS
Thugs hurled fireworks at firefighters who were called out to a caravan fire.
Crews from Newark and Collingham were called to the blaze at the rear of flats on St Mary's Gardens in Newark at 6.40pm yesterday.
Sub-officer Pete Allen, based at Newark, said firefighters spent an hour tackling the blaze, while youths threw fireworks at them.
"There was a group of them aiming rockets at us along the floor," he said.
The caravan, which was destroyed in the blaze, was being used as shelter by a homeless man.
Sub-officer Allen added: "It was fortunate he was out of the caravan at the time. When we arrived it was well alight."
Police were called to the scene and are investigating the incident.

November 1 2002, This is Wiltshire, Warning of crackdown on firework sales to children
WILTSHIRE trading standards officers have warned they are to carry out an undercover operation in the run-up to Bonfire Night to make sure the county's traders are not selling fireworks to children.
It is part of a campaign to reduce the number of injuries caused by incidents involving fireworks, which is growing year by year.
Last year there was a 40 per cent increase nationally in injuries caused by fireworks, up from 972 in 2000 to 1,362. In Wiltshire, four injuries were reported in 2001, all of them children.
Steve Clover, the county's trading standards manager, said: "It almost defies belief that nationally last year almost 100 children under the age of five were taken to hospital with fireworks burns and eye injuries, children so young that they should not have been anywhere near sparklers or other fireworks.
"I am very concerned that youngsters are still able to get hold of fireworks, misusing them and causing accidents.
"I am therefore asking all fireworks retailers to be extra vigilant this year to ensure children cannot buy fireworks.
"Trading standards officers are already making checks to ensure that shopkeepers do not sell fireworks to anyone under the age of 18."
As part of the checks young volunteers may be sent into shops in an attempt to make test purchases.
The maximum penalty for conviction of these offences is a £5,000 fine or six months' imprisonment.
County council officers are also urging everyone to follow the Fireworks Code to protect children and young people from fireworks injuries.
They advise:
Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114
Don't drink alcohol if setting off fire works
Keep fireworks in a closed box, preferably a metal box
Follow the instructions on each firework
Light them at arm's length, using a taper
Stand well back
Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it has not gone off, it can still explode
Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
Always supervise children around fireworks
Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves;
Never give sparklers to a child under five
Keep pets indoors
The Environment Agency suggests:
Go to an organised bonfire: It will be safer and the total impact on air quality and the environment will be less than lots of small bonfire parties
If you are having your own bonfire, build it as close to November 5 as possible, ideally on the night itself, as this will reduce the risk of pets and wildlife getting trapped in it.
Do not burn plastics, aerosols, tyres or canisters as they may produce toxic fumes or explode