Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service issue safety message ahead of Bonfire Night

There are a reduced number of organised displays because of Covid

Published 5th Nov 2021
Last updated 5th Nov 2021

Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service has issued a safety message ahead of Boinfire Night on Friday.

Although some organised displays are going ahead across the county, the number is significantly less than normal due to Covid.

The service is encouraging people who are having bonfires and fireworks at home to make sure they take safety precautions.

How can you stay safe on Bonfire Night?

  • 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 pockets and never throw them
  • Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
  • Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
  • Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Robert Sproat, Station Commander at Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue, said: "If people are letting off fireworks at home then we'd hope that they would have a reasonably safe plan in place.

"If you're having a bonfire then keep it away from any structures, like the house or a shed, and if it does get out of control then please call us as we don't want people to get in danger trying to do it themselves.

"We just ask the public to take responsibility for what they're doing and to keep themselves safe. If possible go for a smaller scale bonfire or firework display to ensure that happens."

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