Police in Sheffield receive almost 100 COMPLAINTS about fireworks in less than a week

The warning came after the force revealed that 89 reports of incidents involving fireworks were received over a six day period.

Between Wednesday, October 7 and Tuesday, October 12, there were 76 calls about issues with fireworks in Sheffield, five in Doncaster, five in Rotherham and three in Barnsley.

Chief Superintendent Sarah Poolman, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “We are already seeing an increase in calls relating to anti-social behaviour involving fireworks several weeks earlier than normal.

“Our officers and partners in the other emergency services are already working in challenging and unprecedented times and valuable resources are being wasted responding to youths in possession of fireworks.

“I am urging young people not to engage in this dangerous behaviour and encouraging parents to speak to their children about the dangers of fireworks and to ensure they are not putting people’s lives and property at risk. If your child is found in possession of a firework and they are under the age of 16, you will be liable and will face a fine.

“We are increasing our evening patrols around the areas affected and those found with fireworks will be arrested.

“I would also like to remind businesses selling pyrotechnics that selling them to under 18s is illegal and you will be prosecuted.”

She added: “Fireworks are dangerous and can have deadly and life-changing consequences if thrown at a person. “How would you feel if you seriously injured your friend? Do not feel pressured to be involved in anti-social behaviour, be responsible and walk away, it could change and saves lives.

“If anyone witnesses incidents involving fireworks and there is an immediate threat to people’s safety please call 999, for non-emergencies please call 101 or use the online reporting form.”

Police patrols are stepped up in South Yorkshire every year over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period because of a traditional increase in reports of anti-social behaviour.

Last year, officers patrolling Staniforth Road in Darnall came under attack by yobs hurling fireworks at them.

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