Urgent safety warning to families ahead of Liverpool's Premier League title parade
A number of children were burned by flares during title celebrations outside Anfield this month
Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Merseyside Police and Liverpool F.C. have issued an urgent safety warning to families ahead of Monday's Premier League title parade.
It's emerged a number of children were rushed to hospital after they were burned by flares during celebrations outside Anfield when the title was confirmed this month.
Ahead of Monday's huge event, fans lining the route are being asked not to use pyrotechnics, including flares, smoke bombs and fireworks.
There were nearly 50 reports of burns outside Anfield when Liverpool clinched the league title with a win over Spurs.
Nathan Askew, Chief Nurse at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We know that Monday will be a fantastic day for all Liverpool fans, but over the past few years we have seen several children and young people who have needed hospital treatment after using pyrotechnics or flares.
“Pyrotechnics and flares can cause serious injuries to children, including severe burns, breathing problems and damage to lungs, ears and eyes.
"Burns are both painful and distressing for children who don’t recognise or understand the dangers.
"We would ask anyone attending to enjoy the day, but please do so safely.”
Concerns have also been raised by supporters that smoke from hand held pyrotechnics will impact people’s visibility and may adversely affect their enjoyment of the parade if they cannot see the players on the coach.
Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health at Liverpool City Council and lifelong Liverpool fan, added: "This parade is about celebration and joy — and bringing dangerous items like flares and smoke bombs only puts yourself and fellow fans at risk.
“Given the injuries we’ve sadly seen on previous occasions, it's just not worth it. Let’s keep this event safe and inclusive for everyone, especially our youngest fans.
And remember — no smoke means everyone gets a clear view of the players and the trophy. Let’s celebrate the success of our incredible team safely, and not ruin what should be an unforgettable day for the wrong reasons."
Merseyside Police Chief Inspector Chris Barnes, who is silver commander for the parade, said: “We want everyone, young and old, to be able to enjoy the LFC victory parade safely and comfortably and while we understand the excitement and jubilation the fans will be feeling on the day, we have to think of everyone who will be present.
“We want the parade to be memorable for the right reasons which is why we are coming together with Liverpool Football Club, Liverpool City Council and Alder Hey Hospital to highlight how dangerous pyrotechnics can be, particularly to children and those who suffer respiratory problems.
“We have seen an increase in the use of people using pyrotechnics, including flares, smoke bombs and fireworks, both inside and outside football grounds, which sadly has resulted in a number of people being injured.
"While recognising that some supporters feel they can add to the atmosphere of the occasion, this is a real concern and we fully support the club and our partners in working to eradicate this dangerous and reckless practice and would ask that supporters work with us, not only at the victory parade but at the final LFC game of the season at Anfield on Sunday 25 May.
“It’s also worth remembering that the parade will have its own professionally organised special effects, including confetti canons and fireworks, which will be adding to the fantastic atmosphere on the day in a safe and controlled manner.”
Paul Cuttill, vice president of stadium operations Liverpool Football Club, added: “We want our supporters to enjoy a fantastic occasion and celebrate our 20th league title win in style through the city streets, but we want it be safe for everyone.
“We’ve seen young children suffering burns injuries as a result of the use of pyrotechnics and, together with our city partners, are taking a responsible approach to highlight just how dangerous they are.
“All of us here at the Club want a safe parade that everyone can enjoy and be able to see the joy on the faces of the fans as the victory bus makes its way across the city. Let’s make this a day to remember for everyone involved.”