A PLEA to make Fareham firework-friendly has been made by the borough council in the run-up to bonfire night.

The council has issued a firework safety message to residents in a bid to reduce injuries.

Every year injuries are caused through people not handling fireworks correctly. The highest number of injuries occur at family or private parties and last year there were 447 injuries of this type nationwide.

Councillor Bob Munden, chairman of the health and environment committee, said: "Children aged 15 or younger make up half of all firework injury victims. By following a few simple guidelines, we can help reduce that figure significantly, and ensure Fareham is a firework-friendly place.

In addition to the standard firework code, the council says these simple rules could help avoid a painful trip to casualty:

*Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.

*Sparklers should only be lit one at a time and always by an adult. A bunch of sparklers, if lit together, can result in a flame travelling up the sparklers and burning hands.

*Don't wear nylon clothing, especially high-fashion sportswear, which could melt against the skin. Always keep skin covered and wear gloves.

*Never give sparklers to children under five.

*Don't allow children to get too close to fireworks or bonfires.