Victorians are being warned illegal fireworks are a "recipe for disaster" as authorities fear an onslaught of injuries and fires heading into the New Year.
Emergency services on Thursday warned Victorians to steer clear of illegal fireworks or risk serious burns, severe property damage or death.
In 2021-22, 17 people turned up to hospital emergency departments with injuries caused by fireworks, according to Monash University's Victorian Injury Surveillance Unit.
Victorians who use illegal fireworks can also be fined and sentenced to time in prison, WorkSafe executive health and safety director Narelle Beer said.
Fireworks are classed as an explosive under the Dangerous Goods Act, and it is illegal for anyone in Victoria except for a licensed pyrotechnician to have or use them.
"Having fireworks in the hands of someone who is not (licensed) is a recipe for disaster," Dr Beer said.
"With COVID impacting the past two New Year's, many people will be keen to celebrate this year but that's no reason for illegal fireworks to be part of the party."
Since July 2015, almost 170 people have been treated for fireworks-related injuries in Victoria.
Of those, almost 80 per cent were male, one quarter were aged between 20 and 24, eight were older than 55, and five were aged four or under.
Fireworks could also spark grass and bushfires, Country Fire Authority chief officer Jason Heffernan said.
"There has been significant grass growth in many areas across the state and these fuels are drying out quickly, so there is potential for vegetation fires."
Firefighters respond to fires sparked by illegal fireworks each year, acting Fire Rescue Commissioner Gavin Freeman said.
Victorians can report information about illegal fireworks to Crime Stoppers.
