Police, firefighters and Aston University team up on firework safety

Police officers, firefighters and Aston University's security team have joined forces to make sure students in Birmingham know the law on fireworks, and how to stay safe, as Halloween and Bonfire Night approach.

On Monday 19 October, Birmingham police, the fire service and the university held a joint police surgery on the Aston campus, giving students the chance to talk directly to officers and security staff, ask questions and find out about the support available.

Know the law

The session focused on the law around fireworks, the dangers of misusing them and the consequences of irresponsible behaviour. University officer PC Steffan Wedderburn explained how getting involved in the misuse of fireworks could have a lasting effect on a student's life, studies and future career.

"It's nice to see students and the city come together to celebrate the festivities," he said. "Most students I speak to are heading to professional events organised by licensed teams, which is great to hear."

"Setting off fireworks in public places is a criminal offence and anyone found doing so could face prosecution. We want everyone to enjoy the celebrations, but it's important that people do so safely and responsibly."

Students were also shown how to report incidents involving fireworks and antisocial behaviour.

"We will not tolerate the misuse of fireworks"

Scott Trim, Aston University's director of campus services, said the university welcomed the police's plans to tackle potential disorder involving fireworks around Halloween and Bonfire Night.

"The safety and wellbeing of our community and our neighbours is a priority, and we will not tolerate the misuse of fireworks, violence or threatening behaviour towards members of the public, our students, staff or police officers," he said.

How to report problems

The force encourages people to call 101, or 999 in an emergency, if they see someone using fireworks in a dangerous or irresponsible way. Antisocial behaviour and fireworks misuse can also be reported on the force's website. To report planned irresponsible behaviour involving fireworks before it happens, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Enjoy the night safely

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is at an organised display, where trained teams handle them and spectators are kept at a safe distance. As PC Wedderburn noted, many students are already choosing those.

For anyone buying fireworks for a garden, the basics still apply: buy from a licensed seller, read the instructions, keep a bucket of water nearby, never return to a lit firework, and keep pets indoors. The aim, for police, the fire service and the university alike, is a season of celebrations without anyone getting hurt.