The Ministry of Public Security has recently issued a notice calling for tighter control on the manufacturing, storage, and sale of firecrackers to prevent potential fire disasters.

The notice pointed out that with Spring Festival, China's most important festival, approaching, the illicit manufacturing of fireworks is entering its yearly peak season. Some firecracker manufacturers even "hire children as workers", which invariably leads to fire disasters.

The ministry said that departments concerned should organize a thorough inspection on the manufacturers and sellers of firecrackers, prohibit illicit firecrackers and punish those who violated the law.

"Police departments at all levels should give particular attention to child labor," the statement stressed.

The Ministry also said that departments concerned must intensify publicity awareness campaigns about the dangers of firecrackers.