ROYAL BERKSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to celebrate Bonfire Night safely with advice for those marking the occasion.
Residents should only buy fireworks with a UKCA or CE mark from reputable retailers and always store them in a closed box until they are ready to use.
Fireworks should not be set off while under the influence of alcohol, and instructions followed carefully.
Never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it appears to have gone out, and avoid putting fireworks in pockets or throwing them.
When lighting fireworks, residents should use a taper at arm’s length, stand well back, and ensure that children are always supervised.
Never give sparklers to children under the age of five, and when using sparklers, light them one at a time while wearing gloves for protection.
Residents should be considerate to animals by letting neighbours know in advance before setting off fireworks so pets can be kept safe.
Residents should also ensure that all firework displays finish by midnight, as required by law, and once the fireworks have cooled, tidy up the debris and soak it in water overnight before disposing of it safely in the bin.
Bonfires should be built well away from buildings, fences, trees, roads, and motorways, and residents should always keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of emergency.
Before lighting, residents should check that no animals are hiding inside the bonfire, and once lit, stand well back and supervise children at all times.
Residents should never use petrol or paraffin to start or accelerate a fire, as this can cause flames to become dangerously out of control.
They should also avoid burning aerosols, tyres, canisters, or materials containing foam or paint, since these can produce toxic fumes or even explode.
Finally, residents should never leave bonfires unattended, ensuring they are fully extinguished before leaving the area.
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.”
She explained: “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.”
