Youths shoot firework out of Blacon phone box

Oct 22 2011 by Rachel Flint, Chester Chronicle

FIREFIGHTERS have warned youths not to play with fireworks after a rocket was launched inside a phone box in the early hours of the morning.

At just after 1.30am firefighters were called to Blacon Hall Road after reports that fireworks had been shooting out of a telephone box.

One fire engine from Chester attended the call, after people walking past saw the display and became concerned that the phone box would set on fire.

When they reached the scene they discovered that someone had wedged a fire work into the change compartment before setting it alight and running off.

With just weeks before Bonfire Night firefighters have now warned parents, shop keepers and youths to be careful with fireworks.

Crew manager Mark Beechey said: “When we got there the firework had gone out, I’m sure it was very spectacular but very dangerous and someone could have been seriously hurt.

“At the moment we are visiting local shops and businesses that sell fireworks and making sure that they are aware of the safe selling and storage of them.

“We would always encourage people to go to large organised firework displays and bonfires. But if you are going to have fireworks at home please keep them away from children, store them safely, and do not play with them.

“We hope that if people follow this advice it will minimise the hurt and damage that fireworks can sometimes cause.”