Bedfordshire Police will be increasing patrols across the county this week as officers prepare for one of their busiest nights of the year — Bonfire Night.
The force is urging Lutonians to celebrate safely and legally, warning that reckless use of fireworks or anti-social behaviour could lead to fines or prosecution.
Superintendent Lee Haines said officers would be out in local communities throughout the evening to keep people safe and provide reassurance.
“We want everyone to enjoy the festivities, but we also ask the public to do this in a safe, respectful and legal way,” he said. “What may be fun for some can be frightening or disruptive for others.”
Police are reminding residents that fireworks cannot be bought by anyone under 18, and that it is against the law to set them off outside permitted hours except on Bonfire Night itself and a few other cultural celebrations such as Diwali. Traders caught selling fireworks to underage buyers risk losing their licence.
Anyone caught illegally using or selling fireworks can face a fine or even imprisonment. The force is asking people to report such incidents through its website or by calling 101.
Officers are also urging the public to avoid phoning 999 unless it is a genuine emergency. Last year, nearly 60 per cent of calls over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period were unrelated to police matters.
Superintendent Haines added: “Please help us by only calling if it’s a policing issue. This ensures we can respond quickly to those who need us most.”
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