Stolen fireworks 'pose a danger'

Thieves who stole fireworks designed for use at an organised show may be trying to sell them to people for use at home, fire experts fear.

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue and trading standards have warned people holding firework parties of the dangers the display units pose.

People can suffer severe burns as the unmarked fireworks go off instantly.

Senior fire officers said the display fireworks had been stolen and were being sold "by unofficial means."

Keiron Davey, Community Fire Protection Team Support Officer, said: "The fireworks are meant for professional displays and therefore have very short fuses instead of the longer ones on home fireworks, giving no time for retreat after lighting.

"They also look different from the usual types of fireworks that are bought in shops, as they do not have the bright attractive packaging and come in plain brown packages and boxing.

"If you have any doubt about fireworks you've obtained, especially if they look different to normal fireworks for home use, just don't use them. This should not be an issue if fireworks have been bought from legitimate retailers for home use.

"We would like also encourage people to attend organised displays and always follow the fireworks code when using fireworks at home."