An urgent appeal has been made to the hundreds of thousands of supporters expected to attend Liverpool’s Premier League trophy parade on Monday, following revelations that numerous children were injured during last month’s celebrations when the Reds secured the league title.
As final preparations are underway for Monday’s grand event, the club, police and other partners are urging those along the route to refrain from using pyrotechnics – including flares, smoke bombs and fireworks – and to be mindful of the risks they present.
The escalating use of such items by fans is a worry for authorities due to the potential injuries they can inflict. It has now been disclosed that after Liverpool was officially crowned Premier League champion following the victory over Spurs at Anfield on April 27, nearly 50 reports of burns were recorded outside the stadium amid the ensuing celebrations.
Alder Hey Children’s Hospital had to treat several children in their A&E department suffering from flare-related burns. This included burns to the hands from holding flares and burns to the face or scalp from falling flares. The youngest burn victim was a mere three years old.
There were 84 reports of injuries by St John’s Ambulance at the last LFC victory parade in 2022, many related to burns as a result of exposure to pyrotechnics, with a total of 12 people hospitalised.
Nathan Askew, chief nurse at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, issued a stark reminder ahead of the Monday celebrations for Liverpool fans: “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.”
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There is a high risk of burns given the extreme temperatures pyrotechnic devices reach, from 700 to 2,500 Celsius, and the potential for smoke to spark respiratory issues or eye irritation.
While the anticipation builds, fanfare can quickly turn to misfortune if flares stick to skin whilst burning or if pyrotechnic smoke obscures views, leaving many unable to witness the parade’s highlights.
Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health at Liverpool City Council and a lifelong Reds supporter, has emphasized the importance of safety during the parade: “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.”
(Image: Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Merseyside Police Chief Inspector Chris Barnes, overseeing the parade operations, shared his thoughts: “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.
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“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.”
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can read the original story in the Liverpool ECHO by clicking here.
