Liverpool FC have urged fans to get to Anfield in plenty of time ahead of tonight’s Merseyside derby with Everton after security were stepped up.
The Anfield club are already facing a large fine from UEFA after being charged with seven counts of misconduct during this season’s Europa League campaign, with half of them relating to the use of flares.
Sniffer dogs will be outside the turnstiles and fans have been warned that any one found trying to bring flares and other devices in to the game will face prosecution as well as a stadium ban.
The club are working closely with Merseyside Police to tackle the issue and are increasing police presence and searching ahead of tonight’s game.
A club statement read: “Ahead of tonight’s derby against Everton FC, Liverpool FC would like to remind supporters that flares, smoke bombs and pyrotechnics are illegal and prohibited.
“Any individual who is found taking these items to Anfield will face prosecution and a stadium ban. Merseyside Police will be using trained sniffer dogs in and around the stadium tonight.
“The use of such devices breaches ground regulations and poses serious risk of injury, health and safety to fellow fans.
“Pyrotechnic devices could also set fire alarms off at Anfield causing a stadium evacuation and potentially abandonment of the match.
“The club has been charged recently for Liverpool supporters using pyrotechnics during recent matches and this may result in sanctions being imposed on the club and supporters at future games.
“We would like to remind supporters of the serious consequences they will face surrounding the possession or use of pyrotechnics and any other illegal items in Anfield Stadium.”