The Ministry of Public security has ordered a nationwide checkup on explosives and guns in an effort to secure a safe festive season between the New Year and the Spring Festival, which falls on February 18 next year.

Winter and spring are traditionally periods that have a high incident rate of explosive and gun-related cases, the ministry said in a circular.

The ministry asked local police to examine whether or not relevant institutions had the correct licenses and personnel to ensure the safe storage and handling of guns, ammunition and explosives.

Employees who are deemed to be "unsuitable" in the handling of these weapons should be transferred, the circular said.

And relevant enterprises and institutions must set up an information system on the management of explosives and guns to ensure their traceability.

(Xinhua News Agency December 12, 2006)