Spike in callouts expected for Dorset fire crews this Bonfire Night
We're warned to ensure safety if hosting a bonfire or fireworks display
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service say they’re preparing for an increase in call outs as people celebrate Bonfire Night this weekend.
The service is advising anyone who is planning their own bonfire or fireworks display to ensure they are safe when hosting their events.
Prevention and Delivery Manager Vikki Thomas says we should check fireworks packages for the ‘CE’ or ‘UKCA’ markings, showing they comply with EU and UK requirements to be sold in Britain:
“We always recommend that you check the fireworks that you’re purchasing and that you keep them very secure, away from children and in a closed box until you’re ready to use them.”
When using the fireworks, Vikki advised that children should be kept well away from them and each fireworks individual instructions should be followed carefully.
As for Bonfires, she said that we should avoid using petrol to help get them started and adding other flammable objects to them.
“Make sure you’re aware of you’re surroundings for your bonfire and that it’s not too close to your shed or fences,” Vikki said, adding that we should consider our neighbours properties too.
Sparkling advice for children
Sparklers are a popular choice for younger people to join in the fun of Bonfire Night, but they come with their own hazards.
Vikki recommends children are always supervised when using them and that we avoid giving them to children under 5 years old.
“They’re a great thing for children to use, but they’re not toys.
“We really must remember that they are a quite serious danger to children,” she said, “Make sure they’re holding (a sparkler) at arm’s length throughout the time they’re using them.”
She added that we should a bucket of water or sand nearby for children to put used sparklers in once they’ve finished and that children know where it is.