The well established working relationship between the Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading, the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service and the Isle of Man Constabulary on Firework Safety continues this year with the organisations launching the 2012 Fireworks Safety Campaign.
The key message to young people and parents is “Be Safe Not Sorry - Always Follow The Code” (http://www.bis.gov.uk/files/file52752.pdf).
The agencies particularly want to get the message out to the public that children and fireworks are a dangerous mix. No-one under 18 can buy fireworks legally however, although UK national statistics are no longer collated, statistics for past years consistently show that over half those suffering injuries each year are under 18. Young people on the Island have fared better over the years but the agencies are determined that we should not become complacent.
The Office of Fair Trading is responsible for ensuring the safe storage of fireworks at retailers’ premises and the prevention of the sale of banned fireworks on the Island. The Fire Service lead the fireworks safety campaign and the Police deal with public nuisance behaviour as well as working with the Office of Fair Trading to reinforce the message to retailers and young people that fireworks can only be sold to those over 18.
Chief Officer of the Office of Fair Trading Mike Ball said: ‘The Office of Fair Trading has worked successfully with the Police and the Fire Service for a number of years to ensure that problems with fireworks are kept to a minimum. OFT staff take their licensing responsibilities very seriously and are pleased to acknowledge the support of the other agencies. I hope that this year’s Fireworks Safety Campaign helps to ensure another safe bonfire night for all Island residents.’
Schools are always keen to promote the safety message and the Office of Fair Trading has supplied them with Fireworks Safety material. The Department of Education and Children Youth Service is also promoting the safety messages through its youth clubs.
During the period 00.01am Friday 2nd November until 00.01am Monday 12th November firework displays can be held without notifying the Department of Home Affairs but anyone planning a display outside of that period must notify the Department at least 21 days in advance of the display date.
