Council worker hurt by firework blast in Southsea bin explosion
Firework in bin sparks chaos on Southsea Common
A council worker was rushed to hospital after a firework exploded inside a bin on Southsea Common. The blast happened at 12.40pm, prompting police to seal off the area, including Clarence Parade, Osborne Road, Palmerston Road, and Avenue de Caen.
Army bomb squad called in over safety fears
Initially, police feared the device was still live and summoned the Army Bomb unit from Aldershot. Fortunately, the injured council worker only suffered minor wounds and has since been discharged.
Cause traced to smouldering barbecue and old rocket firework
Investigators revealed the explosion was triggered by a smouldering barbecue combined with a disused rocket-style firework tossed into a bin on Clarence Parade.
Police urge public to dispose of barbecues and fireworks safely
Hampshire Constabulary praised the community’s patience during the disruption and reminded everyone: “Our priority was public safety. Please dispose of barbecues and fireworks responsibly.” All road closures have now been lifted.
