RESIDENTS are being warned of the dangers of buying fireworks from unlicensed retailers.

Halton Council trading standards officers want to make sure that people are buying fireworks from licensed firework shops.

These retailers are visited by trading standards to make sure that fireworks meet strict safety standards and are being stored safely.

Halton Cllr Dave Cargill, board member for trading standards, said: "As well as putting themselves and the public at risk unlicensed sellers are unlikely to have insurance to provide cover in case an accident occurs involving firework.

"Illegally storing fireworks at home for the purpose of selling them is also likely to invalidate your home insurance.

"Any fireworks should be marked with a CE mark and should contain clear instructions and warnings in English on how they should be used and what safety precautions to take."

As well as the safety requirements it is also illegal to sell category F2 and F3 fireworks to under 18s.

Residents can contact trading standards on 03454 04 05 06 to report any instances of fireworks being offered for sale in suspicious circumstances such as from home addresses or via social media.

Licensed firework retailers in Halton:

Aldi, Unit 6 Trident Retail Park

Runcorn Aldi, Lugsdale Road, Widnes

Asda, West Lane, Runcorn

Asda, Widnes Road, Widnes

Lidl, Unit 1 Edwards Road, Runcorn

Morrisons, Green Oaks Way, Widnes

Paul Niblock, 140 Birchfield Road, Widnes

Poundland, Widnes Shopping Park, Widnes (sparklers/fountains only)

Rightway LTD, Unit 3, Linkway, Runcorn