From West Midlands Police
As we get ready for New Year’s eve, you’ll see more police officers out and about in your neighbourhoods. They’ll be keeping an eye on things to prevent crime and make sure everyone stays safe.
Officers will be stepping up patrols in neighbourhoods and near popular event spots to make sure everyone is enjoying themselves safely and responsibly.
Firework safety
Fireworks and bonfires can be enjoyable and a great opportunity to bring people together. We recommend attending organised community events rather than letting off fireworks at home, however if you are planning a home event ensure you have buckets of sand, water, or fire extinguishers to hand in case they are needed.
Now, a refresher on the firework code…
- It is illegal for anyone under 18 to possess adult fireworks in a public place.
- Children must always be supervised when handling sparklers or near firework displays.
There is a curfew on the use of adult fireworks between 11 pm and 7 am, except on:
- New Year’s Eve (when the curfew is between 1 am and 7 am);
- Chinese New Year (when the curfew is between 1 am and 7 am)
- Bonfire Night (when the curfew is between 12 midnight and 7 am)
- Diwali Night (when the curfew is between 1 am and 7 am)
Remember, it’s an offence to throw or set off any firework (including sparklers and category 1 fireworks) in or into any highway, street, thoroughfare or public space.
Improper use of fireworks, or using them outside of curfew hours can lead to fines and even imprisonment.
You can download your own copy of the firework code here.
Having a party to celebrate?
It’s great to have friends and family round to your house for a get together or party. Whether your inside or in the garden, make sure you lock your vehicles, doors, and windows to stop opportunistic burglars.
With people coming in and out of your house, it’s important not to leave the door on the latch, or keep your garden gate propped open. Explain to your guests that home security is very important and that they should keep their valuables close to them.
We have seen a rise in car-key burglaries so make sure your keys are kept in Faraday pouches (a cage or pouch that blocks signals), away from windows and doors.
If you can, make sure your guests are able to park in a secure place like the driveway or garage. If this is not possible, park next to street lighting or next to CCTV. Steering locks are a fantastic way to deter thieves looking for a quick steal.
If attending a NYE event, remember to park in a designated car park, or opt to walk or get public transport. Parking illegally or blocking junctions can cause accidents and put pedestrians at risk of harm.
For more top tips on how to keep your family, pets, and neighbours safe this NYE please head to our darker nights advice page.
If you are affected or have concerns about anti-social behaviour in your area, please call us on 101.
Calling 101 means the situation does not need an immediate response any can be used to report suspicious behaviour, intelligence on a crime, or simply report a concern.
Call on 999 if you or someone else is in an emergency situation or there is a threat to life. This can include, but is not limited to, an out-of-control fire, fireworks being thrown at public transport or aimed at people, dangerous driving, and a theft/burglary in progress.
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