Reminder to take care with fireworks

With Bonfire Night just around the corner, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging local people to attend organised displays rather than holding their own at home.

Safe & Well Manager Vikki Thomas said: “We would always urge people to attend organised bonfire and fireworks events as it’s much safer. In addition, it reduces the potential pressure on the fire and rescue service at a time of year when we can be extremely busy.

“Watching fireworks at a secured site, behind a safety cordon, is the best way to celebrate safely and avoid injury – plus, many such events raise money for the local community or charities. It’s also fairer to pet owners, as they will know when and where displays will be taking place.”

If you do have a home display, remember that only adults should deal with setting up, lighting and disposing safely of fireworks. Remember the Fireworks Code:

• Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and check the time you can legally set off fireworks.
• Only buy fireworks which carry the CE or UKCA marks, keep them in a closed box, and use them one at a time.
• Read and follow the instructions on each firework, using a torch if necessary.
• Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.
• Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
• Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
• Don’t put fireworks in your pockets, and never throw them.
• Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
• Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
• Ensure the fire is out and the surroundings are safe before leaving.

Any issues such as anti-social behaviour can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

It’s also essential to make sure any bonfire at home is kept under control, with safety measures in place:

• Site any fire well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs – and always away from fireworks.
• Before lighting the fire, check that no animals or children are hiding inside it.
• Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side.
• Never use flammable liquids, such as paraffin or petrol, to light the fire.
• Don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols and tins of paint or bottles.
• Keep everyone away from the fire – especially children, who must be supervised at all times.

More advice can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/fireworks

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