WITH Bonfire night approaching, West Yorkshire Fire Service has pleaded with people to take care and avoid a tragedy.

Chief Fire Officer Phil Toase said while all fireworks should be handled extremely carefully, home-made ones are potential killers.

He said: "Even the smallest fireworks can cause damage if mishandled, but one which has been home-made or tampered with in some way could be dangerously unstable," he said.

"Some of the larger and more powerful fireworks now on sale already have tremendous explosive force and should only be used with extreme care."

Last year a young man who had been drinking suffered serious neck injuries after being hit with two fireballs in the throat.

Mr Toase added: "Alcohol and fireworks are a lethal cocktail. Just one drink can slow reactions and cause a loss of co-ordination. No one should handle fireworks when their judgement may be clouded," he said.

l West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service has conducted an undercover test ti find shopkeepers who sell fireworks to children.

Volunteers, aged 12 to 14 years, were randomly sent to a total of 125 retailers. Out of these 125 retailers, test purchases were made at 54 of them.

Councillor Graham Clarke, Chairman of the Trading Standards Committee is completely outraged by the findings.

"Fireworks injuries predominately involve children. I am frankly dismayed at this year's results and urge retailers to be more vigilant. The message which should be noted by retailers is children and fireworks don't mix," he said. Martin Wood, Chief Trading Standard Officer said that "further test purchases will be conducted and those who do not comply with the law will explain their actions to a court."

The West Yorkshire Fire Service says if you are having your own bonfire, remember to follow the usual guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening.