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The message being delivered by the authorities focuses on safety, education and enforcement.

Police and trading standards officers have been visiting retailers throughout Strathclyde to check that they are registered with the licensing section of the appropriate council and to ensure that their stock of fireworks is stored correctly and safely.

Trading standards officers recently seized several tons of fireworks from various locations throughout Glasgow which were improperly stored.

They have also been enforcing legislation which outlaws the sale of fireworks to anyone under 18 and forbids the dismantling of retail boxes of fireworks for sale individually.

We are very disappointed that some traders continue to break the law by selling fireworks to young people under 18

Assistant chief constable Colin McKerracher

Figures issued by the Department of Trade and Industry show that 82 people were injured in Scotland last year as a result of fireworks - a 33% increase on the 1998 figures.

The majority of victims were under 13 with hand injuries most common followed by injuries to the eye and head.

Assistant chief constable Colin McKerracher said: "I would urge all parents to ensure that their children do not buy fireworks and warn them of the dangers both to themselves and to others.

"It is important that shopkeepers are vigilant however we are very disappointed that some traders continue to break the law by selling fireworks to young people under 18.

"All licensed firework outlets will be warned that anyone found flouting the law will be reported to the procurator fiscal."