A 15-YEAR-OLD has been injured after a firework went off in his hand.

The teenager, from Stockton, is receiving treatment in the town's University Hospital of North Tees, following the incident at about 11am this morning.

Police are warning about the dangers of fireworks and the importance of securing them safely.

Inspector Mick Knapper, of Cleveland Police, said: "Our thoughts are with the boy and his family in hope of a speedy recovery.

"Fireworks are explosives and burn at high temperatures, so they need careful handling and storage; they are not toys to play with.

"They should not be lit by young people, adults should light them at arms length with a taper, and stand well back once lit.

"Fireworks should never be put in a pocket and they should never be thrown."