Bonfire night Photo by Joseph Chan on Unsplash

Have a safe and risk-free bonfire night

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has the following advice for a safe and risk free bonfire night.
 
The majority of fireworks and bonfire accidents happen at private parties. An organised display will be safer than having a party of your own.

Bonfire night and the Firework Code

If you do hold your own party, make sure you follow the firework code as shown below:
 
  • Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114
  • Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
  • Keep fireworks in a closed box
  • Follow the instructions on each firework
  • Light them at arm’s length, using a taper
  • Stand well back
  • Never go near a firework that has been lit
  • Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode
  • Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
  • Always supervise children around fireworks
  • Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
  • Never give sparklers to a child under five
  • Keep pets indoors
  • Don’t let off fireworks after 11pm

Bonfire Safety Tips Bonfire Safety Tips

If you are having a bonfire this year, follow these simple guidelines:

  • Warn your neighbours beforehand – so they are aware and can make necessary preparations
  • Only burn dry material, do not burn anything which is wet or damp, this causes more smoke
  • Check there are no cables (telephone wires etc.) above the bonfire
  • Build the bonfire away from sheds, fences and trees
  • Don’t use petrol or paraffin to start the fire it can quickly get out of control

Once the bonfire is lit, make sure you:

  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby – in case of emergencies
  • Don’t leave the bonfire unattended
  • Keep children and pets away from the bonfire
  • Don’t throw any fireworks into the fire
  • Don’t burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint. This could produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode, causing injury
  • Once the bonfire has died down, spray the embers with water to stop it reigniting

 

In an emergency call 999 immediately.