Remember, remember to be safe this November. With Bonfire Night (5 November) fast approaching, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is urging residents to stay safe when celebrating.
Gail Muirhead, Prevention Manager at RBFRS says: “Many residents across the county will be attending bonfires and firework displays on Bonfire Night. While we want families to have fun, we also want to help everyone to celebrate safely.
“We strongly advise attending organised firework displays and Bonfire Night events rather than setting off your own fireworks, as organised events will have safety measures in place. Fireworks are really dangerous if you don’t use them properly.
“If you do buy your own fireworks, only buy them from reputable retailers and make sure they have a UKCA or CE mark. Don’t set off fireworks if you are under the influence of alcohol and always follow the instructions on each firework’s packaging.
“Keep a close eye on children and pets during Bonfire Night. Sparklers should never be given to children under five-years-old and, if you do let your kids play with them, make sure they are wearing gloves when holding them. Keep your pets inside if possible and be considerate to neighbours if you plan on setting off fireworks by telling them beforehand.”
Follow these tips to help stay safe during Bonfire Night:
Fireworks
- Only buy fireworks with a UKCA or CE mark from reputable retailers.
- Don’t set off fireworks when under the influence of alcohol.
- Keep fireworks stored in a closed box.
- Never go near a firework that has been lit – even if it has gone off, it could still explode.
- Follow the instructions on each firework.
- Never put fireworks in pockets or throw them.
- When lighting fireworks, always use a taper at arm’s length.
- Stand well back.
- Never give sparklers to children under the age of five.
- Always supervise children around fireworks.
- Only light sparklers one at a time, and wear gloves.
- Be considerate to animals when letting off fireworks – let neighbours know in advance so they can care for pets.
- Ensure firework displays are over by midnight (the cut off time by law).
- Once the firework debris has cooled down, tidy it up and soak in water overnight before putting it in a rubbish bag in the bin.
Bonfires
- Build bonfires well away from buildings, fences, trees, major roads and motorways.
- Always keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.
- Check that animals are not inside the bonfire before lighting.
- Stand well back.
- Always supervise children around bonfires.
- Never use petrol or paraffin on fires – the flames can quickly become out of control.
- Do not burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint – these may produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode, causing injuries.
- Never leave bonfires unattended.
Go to the RBFRS website to read more advice on Celebrating Safely.