Motorists are advised to be vigilant after reports that lit fireworks have been thrown at moving vehicles in the Weoley Castle / Selly Oak / Shenley area.
Numerous people contacted us yesterday evening (Thursday 27th October) to say that they had seen lit fireworks being thrown at their cars or others as they drove on Shenley Fields Road.
A West Midlands Police spokeswoman today confirmed that they had received several calls but that offenders had left when officers arrived to check the area.
Police also confirmed another reported incident where lit fireworks were thrown from a moving car at others driving by in Weoley Castle Road at around 10pm on Wednesday (26th October) evening.
There have been other anecdotal reports of fireworks being thrown from and at cars around the area, including around Popes Lane in Kings Norton last week.
In response to the reports, Lee Baker, Station Commander at Woodgate and Bournbrook community fire stations, said: “West Midlands Fire Service always advise sensible & safe use of fireworks. We see an increase in anti-social behaviour & injuries resulting from misuse. Reports of fireworks being targeted at moving vehicles increases the danger of serious injury. This impacts on all communities, young & old alike. Please be considerate of others.
“We are working with partners & businesses on the sale of fireworks to limit concern. Inappropriate sale & use can lead to enforcement action.”
Anyone with any information on these or similar incidents is asked to call West Midlands Police on 101.
If you witness activity which could put others at risk – such as anyone throwing lit fireworks at moving vehicles – please call police immediately on 999
Fireworks should not be sold to anyone under the age of 18. If you believe you know someone is doing so, please contact Birmingham Trading Standards on 03454 040506 or email tradingstandards@birmingham.gov.uk
Fireworks photo by Epic Fireworks on Flickr
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Firework safety advice from West Midlands Fire Service