Private security guards will help the police keep watch on confiscated fireworks until they can be picked up by specialised transport companies, broadcaster NOS said on Wednesday.

The move will boost the safety of both police officers and the public, police union ACP has told the broadcaster.

The change means police who find illegal fireworks will first send a photo to a specialist. The specialist will decide if the explosives can be moved by the police or if they should be picked up by trained transport companies.

If specialist transporters are brought in, private security guards will take over from the police until the haul is picked up, saving considerable police time.

Every year tonnes of illegal fireworks confiscated by police in the run-up to the national firework frenzy on December 31.