YOUTHS messing around with fireworks this year might get their fingers burnt in more ways than one, according to police in Pennine Division.

Officers are warning that misuse of fireworks can not only damage health but pockets too, since police can now fine youths under the Fixed Penalty Notices for Disorder (PNDs) scheme.

The scheme, introduced in April 2004, takes account of new firework legislation and means £80 fines may be issued to anyone committing offences including throwing fireworks, breaching a fireworks curfew, being in possession of a category 4 firework (a display type firework) or being under 18 and in possession of an adult firework.

Police are laying on extra patrols and cracking down on the illegal sale of fireworks as part of their bid to reduce the nuisance element of fireworks.

Inspector Richard Robertshaw, from Burnley Police, said: "The fixed penalty notices for disorder are just one of the tactics we will use in the run-up to Bonfire Night.

"We will also be working in partnership with local fire chiefs, local authorities and Trading Standards officers to reduce the nuisance caused by fireworks and number of offences committed.

"That will involve visits to shops selling fireworks to remind them of their responsibilities and the pro-active targeting by police and trading standards of premises suspected of selling fireworks to underage youngsters.

"We will be distributing posters in known trouble spots warning youngsters of the dangers of misusing fireworks and mounting extra high visibility patrols, involving both regular and special constables, to reassure residents and deter offenders."

He added: "Each year, police across Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale deal with around 400 phone calls from concerned residents leading up to November 5, ranging from calls about juvenile nuisance to the sale of fireworks and damage from fireworks.

"This creates a huge demand on resources which is why officers are keen to take a pro-active stance.

"We want people to be able to enjoy Bonfire Night in safety which is why any anti-social or reckless behaviour will be treated very seriously and offenders dealt with appropriately, whether that be by way of fine or other means."

Residents in Burnley are also being warned not to build their own bonfires on local authority land. Those that do will have them removed before November 5.

Police are also appealing for anyone with information about the illegal sale of fireworks to leave a message giving full details on 01282 472123.