Firefighters from Avon Fire & Rescue Service are encouraging local residents to attend organised displays and events this Bonfire Night, in a bid to reduce the number of injuries sustained from fireworks and bonfires each year.
Organised events tend to be much safer and reduce the risk of bonfires getting out of control, burns and other accidents.
A list of local events taking place across the AF&RS area can be found at http://bathecho.uk/afrs_fireworks.
AF&RS Group Manager for Community Safety, Matt Peskett, said: “We want people to have a fun and safe Bonfire Night so we would advise everyone to attend a properly organised display as these tend to be much safer.
“If you are planning a display at home it’s important you only buy fireworks from a responsible retailer and that they carry British or European safety marks.
“You should always follow the Firework Code, store fireworks in a tin, never return to a lit firework and avoid drinking alcohol if you are in charge of the display.
“If you are planning a bonfire at home it may be worth letting your neighbours know as this could reduce the risk of a false alarm at your property and ensure our crews are available to respond to other calls.
“However, if you do have, or see, a bonfire which is out of control make sure you dial 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.
“Our crews will be on the scene within minutes and have the expertise and equipment to deal with this type of incident.”
The Service is also asking members of the public to help them prevent unnecessary 999 calls this Bonfire Night.
5th November is traditionally a busy night for Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) with around 50% more calls than on an average night.
However, many of the 999 calls turn out to be well intended false alarms, where people have spotted a fire which turns out to be a controlled bonfire in a garden.
This year AF&RS is asking people to let their neighbours know if they are having a bonfire as this may help to reduce the risk of unnecessary 999 calls and ensure firefighters are available to respond to other emergencies.
Safety tips:
- Always follow The Firework Code.
- Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114 or with a CE mark. Don’t forget to follow the instructions carefully.
- Make sure you store your fireworks in a metal box or even a biscuit tin, not in your pockets.
- Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix. If you’re in charge of the display, save the drinking until the fireworks end.
- Build your bonfire clear of trees and fences.
- Never use flammable liquids to start a bonfire and never burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans or batteries.
- Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby for emergencies.
For more fire safety advice visit www.avonfire.gov.uk.
