POLICE have issued a reminder of the laws surrounding fireworks as Bonfire Night rapidly approaches.
People across Bradford and the UK will be enjoying the annual event next weekend, on November 5.
The celebration marks Guy Fawkes' failed attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605.
Members of the public attend official firework displays, while some will host their own events in gardens to celebrate the 417-year-old tradition.
But Bonfire Night is always a busy time for the emergency services, for a variety of reasons.
West Yorkshire Police's Bradford South Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) has published a list of relevant regulations to warn people against breaking the law this year.
Fireworks can be let off at any time of the year but there is a rule in place stating this must be done before 11pm.
The exceptions to this law are as follows:
• November 5th (Bonfire Night/Guy Fawkes): You can let fireworks off until midnight
• December 31st (New Year’s Eve): You can let fireworks off until 1am
• Diwali: You can let fireworks off until 1am
• Chinese New Year: You can let fireworks off until 1am
Anyone who is caught letting off a firework outside these curfew hours could face prison time (a maximum of six months) and a substantial fine.
It is also an offence if you are using fireworks to cause a nuisance.
It is illegal to supply fireworks to those under 18 and anyone in that age category caught with them - except for party poppers, sparklers and throwdowns - in a public place is committing an offence.
Category 4 fireworks (professional display fireworks) can only be possessed by a fireworks professional.
Finally, it is an offence to throw or cast or fire any firework in or into any highway, street, thoroughfare or public space, including from a private place.
You also cannot light any firework or discharge any firearm or firework - without lawful authority or excuse - within 50 feet of the centre of a highway which consists of or comprises a carriageway, and as a consequence, the highway is damaged.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel