Reminder following incidents of fireworks being used anti-socially

We are reminding the public of the law surrounding fireworks following four incidents of them being used anti-socially in Stoke-on-Trent yesterday (Monday 22 September). 

We were called at 7.40pm to Hanley Park following reports of four people setting fireworks off. Officers promptly attended the scene but nobody matching the description was found. 

We were called at 8pm to Durham Drive, Normacot, following reports of fireworks being thrown at houses in the area by two teenagers who were riding bikes. 

Fifteen minutes later, we received a report that fireworks were being thrown at cars on Lightwood Road, Lightwood. 

And at 9.40pm, we were called to Southdown Close, Dresden, following reports of a firework being pushed through a letterbox of a house. 

Our investigation is ongoing. 

Sargeant Will Evans, of the Stoke-on-Trent south local policing team (LPT) said: “Thankfully, nobody was injured in any of the incidents reported yesterday evening, but the outcome could have been very different. 

“Used irresponsibly, fireworks can cause damage to property and do significant harm to people and animals. Not only is there a danger from fireworks exploding, they can also pose a serious fire risk as well.

“This is why members of the public may only use fireworks on private property, such as their back gardens, and only licensed professionals can use them in public places.”

To report anti-social behaviour in your area, call 101 or use Live Chat on our website.

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.