Stay safe on Bonfire Night - advice from fire service

Chief Fire Officer Peter Holland said: “Having fireworks or bonfires at home or visiting a public display can be great fun, especially for children, and if used correctly and responsibly people can enjoy themselves without any danger.

“However people need to remember the dangers associated with fireworks and bonfires. There are a number of simple steps everyone can follow to make it a safe and enjoyable night for all.”

With that in mind, the service has issues the following list of “Dos and Don’ts”:

Do’s

If available, attend an organised display

Build the bonfire away from sheds, fences, trees, vehicles, etc. It should be at least 18m (60ft) away

Check there are no cables, telephone lines etc. above the fire and in some cases below the bonfire.

Use suitable dry materials, removing any rubbish around the area preventing the spread of fire from the controlled area

Check the bonfire before lighting, ensuring the pile is clear of children or wildlife taking refuge within the bonfire

Continuously monitor the condition of the bonfire

Keep children and animals away from the fire

Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby in case of emergency.

Don’ts

Don’t burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint, etc. As these will cause harmful fumes and create potential for injuries should containers explode

Don’t build the bonfire too big as this may result in an unstable structure with potential to collapse outwards or to one side.

Never use petrol, paraffin, etc, to start the bonfire. Using these may cause the fire to spread uncontrollably and cause severe burns.

Do not leave the fire unattended, if not in use extinguish.

Never throw fireworks into the fire.