REMEMBER, remember the Fifth of November.. a date of historical significance marked every year with bonfires and fireworks in memory of Guy Fawkes, and his failed attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

But for many families the date is remembered for other reasons.

Fireworks are dangerous, and every year there are tragedies to report, many of which could have been avoided.

This year the government is attempting to crack down on the use of fireworks with a number of initiatives including:

l A new law banning air bombs;

l A crackdown on illegal markets;

l A new drive to encourage local councils to use their powers to curb the problem of noise and nuisance caused by fireworks.

l A pilot fixed-penalty scheme with fines of up to £40 for over-18s caught throwing fireworks in the street.

Not all can be implemented straight away but announcing the measures earlier this month consumer minister Melanie Johnson said: "We all want to enjoy the fireworks season but too often this time of year is blighted by problems of fireworks misuse, noise and nuisance.

"It is vital we crack down on this problem, but also educate people to make sure they know the consequences of the anti-social use of fireworks,

"Teenagers thinking of messing around with fireworks this year should think again. They are likely to spend Bonfire Night is casualty departments or worse.

"Always remember fireworks are explosives and can cause serious damage."