The Public Protection team will be patrolling, engaging with the public, and enforcing regulations to ensure safety and prevent fireworks from being set off dangerously in streets and public spaces. Warning signs will be displayed in parks, and traders and buyers will receive clear guidance on safe and lawful use. CCTV will be deployed in known problem areas, and Trading Standards officers will visit retailers to reinforce rules regarding underage sales and safe storage. Collaboration with community and charity groups is also a key component of the initiative.
Last year, this proactive approach led to 153 visits, preventing 30 dangerous firework incidents, issuing 62 Community Protection Warnings, and resulting in several fines. This year, officers will focus on repeat hot spots each evening between 7pm and 10pm.
Residents are encouraged to contribute by using a dedicated webpage to report concerns and pinpoint current or previous problem locations on a map. This platform will also provide information on where officers will be operating and allow for reporting when the dedicated hotline is closed. Details of repeat incidents, including locations, dates, and times, will assist the teams in targeting their patrols and prevention efforts.
It is important to note that the council cannot take action regarding noise from fireworks used safely and lawfully in private gardens.
The dedicated webpage and phone line will become active at the start of the operation next week, with further updates to be provided.
