Bonfire night advice for Norfolk's residence

Norfolk's residents are being urged to take extra care this Bonfire Night by not replacing professionally organised displays with unsafe celebrations in back gardens.

Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service are also asking people to only buy fireworks from authorised sellers.

Residents are also reminded that they need to stick to current Government guidance around the rule of six for any gatherings and not exceed that if planning to mark Bonfire Night at home.

Councillor Margaret Dewsbury, Cabinet member for communities and partnerships at Norfolk County Council, said: “We are currently amidst a global pandemic and we are asking people not to take risks which could put additional pressures on our emergency services in Norfolk.

“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.”

The fire service are asking people to follow the Firework Code:

• 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

• Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire

• Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.