FIREWORK fans in Chard and Ilminster are being reminded to let their November 5 celebrations go with a bang, and not a burn.

Government statistics show that if you are male and enjoy watching rockets explode at a bonfire party in your back garden, then you are the most likely to be injured.

Last year, 990 people nationwide were injured by fireworks, and Somerset County Council wants to help drive that figure down by urging people to be safe and help avoid unnecessary injuries.

There are 13 key rules to remember while celebrating November 5: * Only buy fireworks marked with the safety standard BS7114.

* 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.

* 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 away.

* Always supervise children around fireworks.

* Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.

* Never give sparklers to children under five years old.

* Keep pets indoors.

* Don't let off noisy fireworks after 11pm.

Howard Burnett, Somerset County Council's trading standards manager, said: "As well as the safety side to fireworks, there are also legal issues to consider.

"You must be over 18 to buy larger fireworks. It is an offence to throw or set off fireworks in a street or public place, and it is illegal to carry fireworks if you are under 18 years old.

"There is also a category four-type firework which should only be used at public displays - it is an offence for anyone, except firework professionals, to buy or possess such powerful fireworks."

Cllr Jim Mochnacz, Somerset County Council's portfolio holder for Community Safety, said: "Every year Somerset County Council tries harder to send out safety messages about fireworks, but every year people continue to get injured by them.

"It is vital that people take note of the safety points issued by Trading Standards in order to keep firework displays safe across Somerset.

"Whether you are attending an organised show or letting off fireworks in your garden, Somerset County Council wants to ensure everyone is safe this November 5."