Bonfire Night Safety Tips

Friendly neighbourhood fireman, Mark Altree has kindly given us some firework safety tips to make sure you and your family keep safe this Bonfire Night.

As the winter months approach we start to look forward to Halloween, Bonfire night and of course Christmas, it's key to remember that the seasons may change but the risks do not go away.

I like to keep safety simple, a bonfire is a large fire, usually on open ground, and if it’s part of an organised bonfire night event the bonfire will not usually cause a problem, providing you don’t forget that it is a fire, and fires WILL burn you (or your clothes) if you get too close. 

If you are thinking of having your own bonfire my advice is simple...don’t.  Even if you're very careful, there have been incidents where thoughtless individuals have added dangerous items to a fire before it's lit, these actions have, in recent years caused very serious injuries to innocent members of the public.

My advice, as always, is simple – “If you want to see a bonfire or fireworks, go to an organised, properly run display.  It's usually cheaper than buying your own, the fireworks will be bigger and brighter...and it’s certainly SAFER”

Whatever you decide to do, please be careful.  Treat Bonfires and fireworks with the respect and care they deserve, if you don’t the consequences can be fatal.  Be safe, keep your loved ones safe and enjoy the evening.  Make bonfire night the happy time it should be.

Firework Top Ten Safety Tips

Young people should watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance and follow the safety rules for using sparklers. Only adults should deal with firework displays and the lighting of fireworks. They should also take care of the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used.

1. Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.
2. Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
3. Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.
4. Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.
5. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
6. Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
7. Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
8. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
9. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
10. Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.