YOUNGSTERS are being warned about the dangers of fireworks in the countdown to November 5.

And retailers are being urged to act responsibly in the run up to bonfire night by ensuring that they stick to the rules on firework sales.

The warning follows an operation last Friday when officers uncovered an unnamed shop in Burnley selling fireworks outside the October 15 to November 10 sales window.

Trading Standards staff, posing as members of the public, purchased a rocket firework from the shop.

Investigations into the sale are ongoing and the owner could face prosecution and up to six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000.

Suppliers of fireworks have to apply for a specific licence, costing £500, if they want to sell fireworks all the year round.

County Coun Jean Battle, cabinet member for community planning and partnerships, said: "Fireworks can be a significant nuisance to people in the community and residents expect us to clamp down on anyone breaking the rules.

"We have already found one shop not abiding by the rules and we will take action if we come across any more.

"But I also want to urge parents and children to think safety first if they buy or use fireworks.

"Fireworks are not toys but powerful explosives. Each year there are numerous complaints from members of the public regarding anti-social behaviour involving fireworks.

"We will also be investigating where we find fireworks on sale at unlicensed premises and venues and where items are being sold that do not meet the required safety standards."

In 2005 the last published national statistics more people were treated in the North-West for firework related injuries than in any other UK region.

A total of 179 people were treated at hospital accident and emergency departments in the North-West and many of these injuries involved children aged under 17. A large proportion of these were the result of children misusing fireworks.

Anyone with information on traders selling fireworks illegally or to children, should contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.