Lit firework explodes in living room after being 'thrown through window'

A firework 'thrown through a window' in the Sparthbottoms area of Rochdale narrowly missed the home’s occupant as she sat watching television.

The lit firework smashed through the window at 10.30pm on Sunday (25 October), narrowly missing the victim – who was so terrified she ran out of the house.

Photos from the incident show the shattered glass window plus burn marks on the carpet and curtains after the firework exploded.

The victim and her daughter, who both asked not to be named, are hoping to raise awareness of the danger of fireworks and for those responsible to come forward and apologise.

 

 

“At the time we thought it was targeted, but it sounds like a terrible accident now,” the victim’s daughter told Rochdale Online. She said there had been lots going off in the area and “for years” youths had been dangerous with fireworks, using the community centre roof and kick pitch roof to set them off and putting them in bins.

Since the incident, the daughter confirmed no fireworks have been let off in the area since Sunday evening, adding: “Mum is still really scared and I think she will for a while, but she's happy she hasn't heard any since.

“No one should be made to feel scared in their own home.”

 

 

The incident has been reported to both the police and the fire service.

A spokesperson for the police said: "At around 10.45pm on Sunday 25 October 2020, police received a report of an incident involving a firework at a property on Norman Road, Rochdale.

"An investigation is underway.

"Anyone with information should contact police quoting 3032 of 25/10/20 or the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."

Used irresponsibly, fireworks can cause damage to property and do significant harm to people and animals. Not only is there a danger from fireworks exploding, they can also pose a serious fire risk as well.

This is why members of the public may only use fireworks on private property, such as their back gardens, and only licensed professionals can use them in public places. If children are setting off fireworks in your area, the police advise asking them politely to stop as it’s possible they’re unaware that they are breaking the law. 

The Firework Safety Code states that it is illegal to possess fireworks if you are under the age of 18. The code adds that fireworks must never be thrown, to never go back to a lit firework, never put them in your pocket and follow the instructions. Following the code can reduce the likelihood of firework related accidents.

The full Firework Safety Code can be found at:

• www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/staying-safe/safe4autumn-treacle/firework-safety-code/