Safety risk as youths set off fireworks in Oxfordshire park
Concerns for public safety have been raised after youths were seen dangerously setting off fireworks in a park near Chipping Norton last night.
The incident occurred in The Green opposite Co-op Food on Pear Tree Close in Milton-under-Wychwood between 9pm and 9.30pm.
Thames Valley Police was called to the area after reports of "a group of youths" setting off fireworks in the children's park.
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However, by the time officers had arrived, the young people had dispersed and no direct injuries were reported.
According to reports, the children were handling the fireworks "irresponsibly" with some being discharged too close to playground equipment and nearby houses.
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A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: "The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the public and particularly the children involved, as well as potential violations of laws regarding the use of fireworks in public spaces."
The neighbourhood policing team issued an alert warning people of the dangers of using fireworks irresponsibly, which includes fire hazards, physical injury and potential for explosions.
There are also concerns around noise pollution and the unpredictability of fireworks, which can malfunction, misfire or discharge in unintended directions.
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Under UK Firework Regulations, fireworks can only be sold to people over the age of 18, and cannot be set off between 11pm and 7am except for specific dates, like New Year's Eve and Bonfire Night.
Setting off fireworks in public can result in criminal charges, especially if damage or injury is caused, and local authorities have specific rules prohibiting the discharge of fireworks in places like parks without permission.
Anyone with information about the incident should contact police on 101 or make a report online quoting the reference number 43250140527.
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