Check ID to stop underage teenagers buying fireworks

One in five 15-16 year olds have admitted they plan to purchase fireworks ahead of Bonfire Night, according to research by Under Age Sales.

The categories ‘Garden Fireworks’ and ‘Display Fireworks’ have been replaced by F2 and F3 fireworks.

The report showed that 20% of 15-16 year olds who intend to buy fireworks will attempt to purchase the products themselves, either with or without fake ID, while almost 25% will ask an older friend or sibling to buy them.

Tony Allen, managing director for Under Age Sales, said: “The law is there to protect young people and communities and it’s the retailer’s responsibility to ensure fireworks don’t end up in the wrong hands.”

The company is urging retailers to always thoroughly check ID and ensure fireworks are not sold to anyone underage.

Top Tips

1. Retailers selling fireworks must obtain a licence from the Explosives Licensing Authority by contacting the local council or fire service.
2. Keep records of where you source your fireworks from for 10 years.
3. Ensure that you and your staff are making sure fireworks are never sold to anyone under 18 years old.
4. Only sell fireworks between 12:01am – 11:59pm October 15 – November 10 unless you have an ‘All Year Round Licence’.
5. Make sure you have the correct signs up in store before selling.

Retailers are required to display a notice, which says:

• It is illegal to sell category F2 fireworks or category F3 fireworks to anyone under the age of 18
• It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess category F2 fireworks or category F3 fireworks in a public place