Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service is urging residents to only buy fireworks from reputable traders.

As the fireworks season approaches many people will consider buying fireworks for private functions to mark events including Halloween and Bonfire Night.

When buying fireworks always look for the CE mark - fireworks must always display this as it shows the product has been designed and manufactured in accordance with the essential safety requirements.

The service is also reminding traders that the legal minimum age for buying fireworks is 18 and if in doubt they should ask for ID before sale.

Fireworks should only be purchased from reputable traders, never from car boot sales, door-to-door sellers or market stalls. People should also stay clear of buying fireworks from private sales via Buy & Sell groups including Facebook.

Mark Peacock, the Business Support Team Manager at Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service, said: “We would like to remind businesses that the legal minimum age for buying fireworks is 18 and that they must make age verification checks if in any doubt before selling.”

Advice for consumers on firework safety can be found at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents website at ROSPA - Firework Safety.

The service regularly inspects businesses storing fireworks and that fireworks being sold to the public meet appropriate safety standards and are suitable for private use.

If people become suspicious or concerned as to the sale or supply of fireworks they can report the matter to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 or 0208 1850710. Advice and guidance for businesses on the sale and supply of fireworks can be found here: http://devon.cc/-aw43.