Words of advice for a safe Bonfire Night

Follow these top tips from North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable bonfire night:

Professionally organised firework displays are much safer to attend. But this year due to COVID19 many have been cancelled. If you are thinking about organising a home display, think carefully, plan carefully and follow the Firework Code.

Whilst most people enjoy fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause real misery. Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.

With many organised events cancelled, emergency services are preparing for a busier night than usual as people celebrate in their own gardens.

We’d urge you to think twice about having a home display but if you are having one, think carefully, plan carefully and follow the Firework Code.

• Make sure you follow guidance on social distancing and restrictions on households mixing
• Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm
• Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, 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 pockets and never throw them
• Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators

If you’re having a bonfire:

• Check for hedgehogs and other wildlife before lighting your bonfire.
• Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
• Don’t build bonfires close to trees, hedges or sheds.
• Don’t leave bonfires unattended.
• Make sure that the bonfire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Remember that you must be over 18 to purchase fireworks and that it is illegal to set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places. You can be fined up to £5,000 and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.