A STERN safety warning is being issued to teenagers in the run up to the traditional Bonfire Night festivities.

The Department of Trade and Industry firework safety campaign was launched this week at the same time that fireworks went on sale across Chorley.

Research shows that teenagers are more likely than anyone else to spend Bonfire Night in casualty department -- or worse.

Last year more than half of all injuries happened to children under 16 -- even though it is illegal to sell fireworks to people under 18.

Consumer and competition Minister Melanie Johnson said: "Although the number of accidents from fireworks has been decreasing in recent years, we cannot afford to be complacent.

"Last year, two young people were killed in firework accidents, and many more were injured.

"Nearly all these accidents could have been prevented if only simple common sense rules had been followed.

"Fireworks aren't flashy toys for show-offs; they're explosives, and should be treated with respect."

The DTI's campaign, backed this year by business such as Asda and Homebase, local authorities and public safety organisations, is aimed at children and young people, and aims to reduce the numbers of injuries, particularly to the hands and eyes.

Safety packs have been sent to schools and television adverts are also to be screened.

The packs include the following safety tips:

Only buy fireworks marked with the BS 7114 kitemark.

Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

Keep fireworks in a closed box.

Follow the instructions on each firework.

Light them at arms length, using a taper and stand well back.

Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode.

Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.

Always supervise children around fireworks.

Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.

Never give sparklers to children under five.

Keep pets indoors.