As Bonfire Night is upon us, Hampshire Constabulary is urging people to be considerate to others and think about the laws surrounding fireworks.
What should be a festive event can be become a very miserable occasion for many people living in Hampshire if fireworks are not used in the correct manner.
Extra police officers will be out and about across Hampshire during the busy firework and bonfire period to reassure the public and to deal with any incidents which arise.
It is an offence to set off fireworks after midnight on November 5 and after 11:00pm on any other night, excluding New Years Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali night. Individuals found setting of fireworks at unsocial hours will be given an £80 fixed penalty notice.
Those who fail to pay the penalty notice will face an increased fine of £120 and court action. Anyone under the age of 18 caught possessing adult fireworks in a public place or throwing fireworks in the street will also be issued with an £80 penalty notice.
Categories of Fireworks:
- One (NOT adult Fireworks): Party popper, sparkler, cap, cracker snap, novelty match, serpent or thrown-down.
- Two (adult fireworks): Garden Fireworks
- Three (Adult fireworks): Consumer display fireworks
- Four (Adult fireworks): Professional display fireworks
The main offences concerning fireworks are to:
- Possess adult fireworks in a public place if you are under 18
- Possess category four fireworks if you are not a fireworks professional
- Supply adult fireworks and sparklers to anyone who is under 18
- Set off or throw fireworks in the street.
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