The use of all forms of pyros – including flares, smoke bombs and fireworks – at all sports grounds is illegal and could result in a lifetime stadium ban and police action.
In recent weeks there has been an increase in their use. Following the game against Tottenham Hotspur when Liverpool clinched the title, there were close to 50 reports of burns outside Anfield, with the youngest being a three-year-old child.
Alder Hey had to treat several children in its emergency department with burns from flares after the game, including burns to the hands from holding flares and burns to the face or scalp from flares dropping onto them.
Alongside Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police and Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, LFC has called on supporters to enjoy a safe and secure parade while protecting children from pyrotechnics.
The same is true for the last match of the season on Sunday, when supporters’ safety is the number one priority.
Pyros burn at high temperatures, generally between 700 and 2,500 Celsius, and can cause burns either from direct contact or in close proximity. Flares, in particular, can stick to the skin when burning.
As well as severe heat, pyrotechnics produce smoke, which can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions and cause irritation to eyes.
They also come with ‘safety distance’ information, often printed on the device itself, which clearly states they should not be used in crowded spaces and in close proximity to other people.
Concerns have also been raised by supporters that smoke from handheld pyrotechnics will impact people’s visibility and may adversely affect their enjoyment of the game, trophy lift and team bus arrival.
The club also wants to remind fans that for this game the Liverpool coach will travel to Anfield via a different route than normal.
It will now travel into the stadium from the direction of Arkles Lane, arriving at approximately 2.30pm BST, and then go via the Shankly Gates and past the Anfield Road Stand into the stadium.
The route will be barriered and clearly marked with police and steward support.
The decision has been made early to use an alternative route into the stadium for this match based on safety reasons, because everyone’s safety continues to be the number one priority on matchday.
The plan means fans attending the match will have more space to make sure the team gets the champions’ welcome they deserve, without compromising safety.
The Kop Bar, Anfield Road Fan Zone and Paisley Square Fan Zone will be closed for this match. There will also be additional road closures in place. Please check your travel plan to the stadium in advance.
