SPOT checks are being carried out to make sure shops are not selling illegal fireworks.

Trading standards officers are carrying out inspections to make sure businesses are selling fireworks correctly, the items are legal and are stored in the correct way.

During inspections, officers will look to see if the fireworks comply with safety standards, professional use fireworks are not being sold to the public, selection packs are not being split up and sold separately, owners have the correct licences and are stored properly and to make sure they ar not being sold to people under 18 years of age.

There are 175 premises licensed with the county council for the storage of fireworks.

County Councillor Albert Atkinson, cabinet member for technical services, rural affairs and waste management, said: "People's safety is our main concern.

"We want to ensure that the fireworks that are being sold are legal and that Lancashire retailers that sell them have the correct licences from the county council.

"Our inspections help to ensure there are no under-age sales and that no fireworks meant for commercial displays are being sold to members of the public.

"We want people to enjoy Bonfire Night, but ensure they use fireworks responsibly, follow the fireworks code and always buy from a reputable trader.

"We'll continue to work closely with the police and fire service to do all we can to help people stay safe and well while enjoying the fireworks."

If people suspect illegal firework sales, including sales of fireworks to children, they can report the matter to trading standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06.