Fake and dangerous
TESTS have proven the fireworks which injured two boys aged 15 and 12 yesterday (Thursday) were fake.
Following examination of the ‘bangers’ involved in each of the incidents, seized from a shed in Blackmoor Place, New Stevenston, by Trading Standards, Strathclyde Police and the Forensic Explosive Laboratory, they have been deemed to be counterfeit and pose a significant danger to those using them.
Around 5.20pm, a 15-year-old boy sustained serious injuries to his hand in Motherwell after a ‘banger’ he was holding exploded.
He was taken by ambulance to Wishaw General Hospital, but has since been transferred to Glasgow Royal Infirmary where he is detained and hospital staff describe his condition as stable.
In a second incident, a 12-year-old sustained superficial burns to his hand after being scorched by a ‘banger’ firework in Wrangholm Drive, New Stevenston, around 2.30pm.
Given the risk these illegal items pose, police are asking members of the public not to dispose of them personally, but to contact their local police office who will do so safely.
Superintendent John McTear said: “We are asking members of the public to look at the image of these ‘bangers’ we have distributed. Do you recognise them, have you bought any recently?
“Our primary role is keeping people safe, and as such we are still trying to investigate where these came from.
“We are trying to find out where in Strathclyde they can be bought, and would urge anyone who may have purchased them or have them in their possession to contact police who will dispose of these safely.
“Please do not put them in your normal household bin as they could be picked up by a young child and could cause them significant injuries.”
To report information related to these fireworks contact your local police office or dial 0141 532 2000.
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Weather for Motherwell, Scotland
Saturday 18 May 2013
Today
Heavy rain
Temperature: 10 C to 15 C
Wind Speed: 21 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 10 C to 18 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: East
