DO NOT use flares as a substitute for fireworks during the Guy Fawkes Night celebrations.

That's the plea from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and Maritime and Coastguard Agency - because they are worried that rescuers' lives may be put at risk.

RNLI spokesman Peter Bradley says: "When a flare goes up it is universally recognised as a distress signal, so it's no surprise to find concerned people dialling 999 when they see one - and they should continue to do so.

"Our volunteer crews are always ready to answer the call but it is frustrating for them to search through the night because a flare has been fired for the wrong reasons.

He says that the use of flares on bonfire night has been increasing year on year, possibly because the festivities have extended to a much longer period surrounding November 5.

The last three years have seen RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews called out 35 times to false alarms caused by revellers lighting up the night sky.

"Not only are they called away from their own family parties, but they are also risking their lives each time they put to sea."

And Peter Dymond, Coast-guard Agency head of search and rescue, adds: "Often people are tempted to use up their out of date flares on Bonfire Night, but this causes real problems.

"Flares are an essential part of every sailor's kit but are meant to help save lives not endanger them."