They pose a danger to all supporters
After a number of incidents at recent games, we are reminding all supporters about the dangers and penalties of smoke grenades, flares and fireworks – known as ‘pyros’.
Nationally and locally, there is a growing trend of football supporters taking ‘pyros’ into football matches in the belief their use creates a more exciting atmosphere and a ‘buzz’ around the ground.
In reality, they pose a danger to everyone in the stadium and it is a criminal offence to enter or attempt to enter a stadium while in possession of fireworks, smoke grenades or other ‘pyro’ and to set them off in a public place.
We are hoping to make supporters more aware of the potential dangers and the criminal consequences of using ‘pyros’, and ultimately stop people bringing them into the stadium.
PC Nick Price of Northamptonshire Police said, “We’ve been increasingly concerned about the growing use of ‘pyros’ at football games across the country and we want to prevent more from happening.
“We need people to understand the potential dangers and also realise that possession and use of ‘pyros’ in a public place is a serious criminal offence that could even result in a prison sentence.
“We’ve noticed discussion on social media about the difference between a smoke grenade and a flare or firework. The general view of supporters appears to be that smoke grenades are a 'bit of fun' whereas there is a general acceptance that the use of flares in a stadium environment is dangerous.
"However, smoke grenades can also be dangerous and to set them off in a public place is illegal.
“It is also an offence for anyone under the age of 18 to be in possession of ‘pyro’ in a public place and there is some evidence to suggest that young people are being bullied into taking smoke grenades into football games against their will.
“If they are caught, they risk getting criminal record and even a caution will stay on their record, meaning it could affect their employment prospects for years to come."
Please help you and the club avoid trouble, do not attempt to bring such items into Sixfields.