Police warning after smoke bombs at football match

More than 1,500 Lincoln City fans made the trip to support their team in a 3-2 win at Burton Albion

Police have issued a warning over the use of smoke bombs at football matches after a woman and two young children were treated for breathing difficulties.

More than 1,500 Lincoln City fans made the trip to support their team in a 3-2 win at Burton Albion on the opening day of the season on Saturday.

However, in a social media post, Lincolnshire Police said it was disappointed to see seven smoke bombs being let off in the away stand during the match.

The club did not have anything further to add to the post by police, but said it was involved in an English Football League (EFL) initiative to raise awareness of the dangers of pyrotechnics.

'Lighting them has consequences'

Posting on X, Lincolnshire Police's football unit said: "A great win for the #imps, but disappointing to see seven smoke bombs go off in the away stand today.

"A consequence of this was a mum and two young daughters requiring medical assistance for breathing difficulties.

"Not nice to see a young fan in tears not wanting to come to watch ever again through being frightened and struggling to breath.

"Lighting them has consequences," the post said.

Officers called for fans to help "eradicate pyros being brought in before a tragedy occurs".

The use of pyrotechnics, or trying to get them into a football stadium, is a criminal offence.

According to the EFL's website, football supporters found in possession of or using pyrotechnic devices face club bans and being reported to police.

Injuries from pyrotechnics in football grounds include burns and breathing problems, as well as damage to hands, hearing, lungs and eyes, it added.

The BBC has approached Lincolnshire Police to ask if any action is being taken to identify those involved.

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