POLICE in Suffolk are supporting the fire service in their calls to ask people to act responsibly when using fireworks this year.With today being the official date for celebrating the downfall of Guy Fawkes and his gunpowder plot, this is a timely reminder.

POLICE in Suffolk are supporting the fire service in their calls to ask people to act responsibly when using fireworks this year.

With today being the official date for celebrating the downfall of Guy Fawkes and his gunpowder plot, this is a timely reminder.

As well as the obvious concerns relating to people injuring themselves as a result of not taking proper precautions when using fireworks, police are warning people to be sensible and to think carefully about the consequences of their behaviour. Reports have been received of fireworks being thrown, put in rubbish bins and even through letterboxes.

"What may seem like a prank to some could have serious or even fatal consequences for others," warned Chief Inspector Clive Joseph who heads Community Safety for Suffolk Police.

"A firework deliberately placed somewhere that causes a fire or some other harm could result in an offender facing serious criminal charges and receiving the appropriate penalty if found guilty.

"There are many organised events throughout the county, which enable the public to enjoy the spectacle in safety. If people do want to use fireworks at home they should make sure that they do so in a safe and considerate way."