Clampdown On Underage Firework Sales

Trading Standards Officers have launched a clampdown on underage firework sales in Wrexham over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period

Officers will be undertaking a test purchasing campaign in the coming weeks to prevent incidents of anti-social behaviour and to keep members of the public safe.

The initiative is part of Wrexham Community Safety Partnerships’ Bonfire and Halloween campaign and in a two pronged attack they will also be targeting retailers who stock fireworks to ensure that they are registered with Trading Standards to do so.

Trading Standards has warned that many fireworks are sold through the black market including street hawkers, pub sellers or car boot sales.

Many of these fireworks may be unsafe and dangerous and the public are warned to avoid these outlets and report any suspicions they may have to 01978 292045.

Andy Lewis, Head of Housing and Public Protection, said:

“It is essential that retailers advise their staff to be vigilant during this period to ensure that no-one under the age of 18 is served with fireworks or any age restricted products.

“At this time of year in particular, the combination of fireworks and alcohol in young hands could prove a lethal mix.

“Incidents of anti social behaviour are often linked to the sale and supply of underage products and officers will not hesitate to take appropriate action when dealing with anyone who is flouting the law.”

Trading Standards advise retailers to ask for proof of age in order to avoid under age sales and consider introducing a Think 21 Policy where anyone appearing to be under the age of 21 is asked to prove their age.

Further information about underage sales and the legal sale of fireworks is available by calling 01978 292045.