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Fireworks are now on sale across Hertfordshire.
Trading Standards are visiting retailers to ensure that they are being stored safely and securely. You can buy fireworks from registered sellers for private use on these dates;
15 October to 10 November
26 to 31 December
3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.
Consumers should read instructions carefully and ensure that there is enough space to set off the firework away from spectators. Under no circumstances can fireworks labelled BS7114 be sold only fireworks that are CE marked are legal.
Only adults should deal with setting up firework displays, the lighting of fireworks and the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used (and remember, alcohol and fireworks don't mix!). Children and young people should be supervised, and watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance. Follow these top 10 tips for a safer fireworks party:
Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm
Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time
Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back
Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
Never return to a firework once it has been lit
Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.