ST HELENS Council is warning of the danger of fireworks - even sparklers - being in the wrong hands during bonfire celebrations.

While there has been an overall drop of 28 per cent in fireworks-related injuries, incidents involving sparklers continue to rise.

Councillor Richard Ward, chairman of Housing and Environmental Health, said: "Sparklers burn at an astonishingly high temperature - up to 2,000 degrees C. No responsible parent would let children near chip pans, irons or barbecues, yet the heat from a lit sparklers is greater than any of these."

Top tips to follow the firework code include:

Closely read all instructions.

Fireworks should be lit by adults, remember only light one at a time.

Do not return to a firework which you think may have gone out - it may suddenly blow up in your face.

Do not take your own fireworks to organised events. If you have your own garden display at least one adult should always be present.

Keep your distance and never handle fireworks or be tempted to put them in a pocket.

Keep a bucket of water nearby.

Never throw discarded fireworks onto a bonfire as they may still contain powder.

Wear the right clothing. Wear gloves if you intend to hold sparklers. Do not wear shell suits or any nylon clothing that could melt against the skin. Remember to tuck scarves in so they cannot catch fire.

Never play with fireworks. It's not worth the risk.

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