With many organised events cancelled, emergency services are preparing for a busier night than usual as people may choose to celebrate in their own gardens.
We are asking everyone to show respect this Bonfire Night.
Respect the firework
Community Safety Manager, Joanne Cook, said: “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. Buy from a licensed trader, and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.
Please stay safe and 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 and have instructions for use in English.
- Keep unlit fireworks in a closed box and only 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.
Respect the emergency services
We are currently amidst a global pandemic and we are asking people not to take risks, putting additional pressures on our emergency services.
Consultant Plastic and Burns Surgeons, Miss Alexandra Murray and Professor Fadi Issa, who both work at Stoke Mandeville Burns Unit, are keen to help highlight the importance of knowing what to do if someone suffers a burn.
Professor Issa said: “Candles, bonfires and fireworks are often at the forefront of people minds at this time of year, and many injuries can be prevented by following safety advice and the Firework Code.
“However burns or scalds can happen, and correct, swift treatment can make a big difference. If you do suffer a burn, ensure you:
- Promptly cool the burn under cool running water for at least twenty minutes.
- After the burn has been cooled, cover it with cling film or a clean plastic bag.
- Do not use any creams, lotions or toothpaste.
- Seek medical advice and call 999 if necessary.
- Always seek medical advice for a baby or child that has been burned.
Respect your neighbours
Fireworks can frighten people and animals. The elderly and children are frequently scared and intimidated by firework noise. After all, fireworks are explosives. Please be considerate and tell your neighbours if you’re a planning on letting off fireworks. Avoid purchasing really noisy ones and make sure the noise is over by 11pm.
You must not set off fireworks 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.
Superintendent Bhupinder Rai, Head of Local Policing for Thames Valley Police, said: “It is important to remember that fireworks are explosives and that these can be very dangerous when used irresponsibly.
“Last year, in Thames Valley, we received more than 160 calls related to fireworks on Halloween night. The majority of which related to fireworks being used inappropriately by young people, including throwing fireworks at police officers, members of the public, vehicles and buildings.
“The consequences of incidents like these can be incredibly serious and, as fireworks go on sale for private use this year, I want to remind the public that it is illegal for a person under 18 to possess an adult firework in a public place. This excludes sparklers, caps, cracker snaps, novelty matches, party poppers, serpents and throw downs.
“If you have fireworks in your home, please ensure that these cannot be accessed by your children and in any case, remind them of the serious consequences that these items can have when used inappropriately.”
Respect your local COVID-19 Control measures
With Covid-19 cases rising in our local area it is even more important to factor the latest and most current control measures and social distancing requirements when planning your celebrations.
Fire Authority Chairman, Councillor Lesley Clarke OBE, said: “The local authorities in Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes are working hard at the moment to ensure the latest coronavirus safety messages are available to help keep the people who live, work and travel in our areas safe.
“I would urge everyone to keep an eye on the websites and formal social media accounts of Buckinghamshire Council and Milton Keynes Council for the latest safety guidance.”
Show some respect this Bonfire Night.
