The government wants to cut hand and eye injuries

Last year two young people were killed in firework accidents and an estimated 900 people were injured - more than 500 of whom were under 16.

Only 12% of the injuries happened at organised public displays - most were at private parties or in accidents in the street.

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.

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

She added: "Even though it is illegal to sell fireworks to people under 18, last year over half of all injuries happened to children under 16.

"That is a lot of young people who may have horrible scars - for life."

The Department of Trade and Industry is also reiterating the six-part firework safety code. This is:

• Never play with fireworks.

• Only adults should light or hold fireworks.

• Stand well back while watching fireworks.

• Never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it has not gone off.

• Keep pets indoors.

• Hold sparklers at arms length; wear gloves; do not touch them once they have gone out; do not give them to children under five.