West Sussex fire crews urge people to think twice about firework displays at home
"We must remember that fireworks are explosives and treat them with respect."
People in West Sussex are being urged to take extra care this Bonfire Night, with more residents expected to hold firework displays at home this year.
It comes as many organised events are cancelled across the area because of the coronavirus pandemic and a national lockdown gets underway.
Emergency services are said to be preparing for a busier night than usual as people celebrate in their own gardens.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is asking everyone to show respect this Bonfire Night.
Nicki Peddle, head of prevention at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said:
"We are ready and on standby for any incidents, should they happen.
"But what I would be urging people is to really think carefully about having fireworks at home and to actually try and find perhaps an alternative way to celebrate this year.
"What we must remember is that fireworks are explosives and treat them with respect.
"Some people may not be aware, but some fireworks burn at 2,000 degrees - that's five times hotter than what you'd cook your pizza at.
"So it's really important to be very careful and treat them with respect.
"They can lead to serious injury."
Nicki added fireworks should be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and 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
• Do not 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.
The fire service is also asking people not to take risks which would put additional pressures on emergency services during the COVID-19 outbreak.
They have said injuries can be prevented by following the Firework Code, but if anybody does suffer a burn they should:
• Cool the burn under cold running water for at least ten minutes.
• After the burn has been cooled, cover it with cling film or a clean plastic bag.
• Call 999 if necessary. Always seek medical advice for a baby or child that has been burned.
Fireworks can frighten people and animals, with the elderly and children said to be "frequently scared and intimidated" by firework noise.
People are asked to tell their neighbours if they are planning on letting off fireworks and avoid buying really noisy ones.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is also supporting the RSPCA’s ‘Bang Out Of Order’ campaign, encouraging the responsible use of fireworks and the adoption of tighter regulations concerning their use.
Fireworks must not be set off between 11pm and 7am, except for:
• Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
• New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am.
The fire service is reminding people they must be over the age of 18 to purchase fireworks and it is illegal to set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.
People can be fined up to £5,000 and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally. They could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.