Suffolk Fire Service urges people to remain 'fun and fire safe' at Bonfire Night celebrations
The service says attending an official, licensed event is the safest way to celebrate
People across Suffolk are being reminded to stay vigilant' this weekend at any early Bonfire Night celebrations.
Suffolk Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) is asking us to make sure all fireworks are kept away from children, and that any lit fires don't end up out of control.
Lee Wilkins, SFRS head of Prevention, Community Engagement and Partnership Working, said: “We want everyone to have a great time and enjoy all the activities of this time of year in safety.
“Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure Bonfire Night remains fun and fire safe.”
Here are Lee's top tips for staying safe at bonfire night celebrations:
• If clothing does catch fire, children should ‘Stop, drop and roll’.
• Make sure you can be seen in dark. Use reflective tape and glowsticks to make yourself more visible, especially when near roads.
• Never return to a lit firework or throw them into bonfires.
• Stand well back from fireworks and bonfires.
• It is not recommended to give sparklers to children under five.
• Always wear gloves when holding sparklers.
• Hold sparklers at arm’s length, away from the face.
• Always have a bucket of water or sand nearby to put the sparkler in, hot end down, once it has gone out.
• Never throw a sparkler onto the floor.
SFRS also recommends anyone planning to celebrate does so at an official, licensed event rather than at home - saying it's a much safer option - as organisers have to follow certain health and safety codes.