Firework and bonfire safety

As the days shorten and the nights draw in, many of you will be looking forward to the first of the winter festivals and celebrations.

Two of these occurring around the same time of year are Bonfire Night and Diwali. What both of these have in common is the use of plenty of bonfires and fireworks.

Festivals and celebrations are a joyful time for most communities, bringing family and friends together. Unfortunately, this means it can also be a time of year when the celebrating community is more likely to be distracted and less aware of risks, such as fire.

Although bonfires and fireworks are great fun and something to be enjoyed, there is the potential for danger and things going spectacularly wrong.

The total number of firework injuries in Great Britain during the bonfire season is beginning to show signs that the education programme is having an impact. It is for this reason that West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service would like to offer the following advice to users during their festivities, so that everyone can enjoy a safe and happy celebration without any unwanted incidents and injuries. Please help continue this positive trend by taking heed of these tips.

Bonfires

• Make sure that bonfires are away from fences, garden sheds and properties.
• Never let your children near the fire, and cordon off the area.
• Never light the fire using flammable liquids.
• Consider wind direction.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy.
• Never leave a bonfire unattended.
• Make sure there are no aerosol cans that may explode.
• Make sure the fire is extinguished before going back.
• Consider nearby properties that may have thatched roofs.
• Avoid the risks by considering going to an organised display in your area.
• Above all, have a safe and happy night.

Fireworks

• Never play with fireworks, they are explosives and can hurt you.
• Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin.
• Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately.
• Only adults should light or hold fireworks.
• Never put fireworks in your pocket.
• Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp - never use a naked flame.
• Light fireworks at arms length using a taper or a firework lighter.
• Stand well back and never return to a firework after it has been lit - it could explode in your face.
• Ensure that all children with fireworks are well supervised.
• Never throw fireworks.
• Keep all pets and animals indoors.
• Take care with sparklers - wear gloves to hold them and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished. Never give sparklers to a child under 5.
• Fireworks and alcohol can be an explosive combination. If you are lighting fireworks, just one drink can be one drink too many.
• Remember, you have to be at least 18 years old to buy fireworks.
• Always follow the firework code.