Bonfire Night Safety Tips: Stay Safe and Warm This November
Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is a time for celebration, but it's also crucial to prioritize safety. Avon Fire & Rescue Service is dedicated to ensuring everyone enjoys this festive occasion safely. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
Bonfire Safety
- Choose a safe location: Select a clear, open space away from buildings, trees, and power lines. Ensure the ground is flat and clear of flammable materials.
- Build your bonfire responsibly: Start with a base of dry wood and gradually build upwards, leaving enough space for air to circulate.
- Never use flammable liquids: Never use petrol, paraffin, or other flammable liquids to start or fuel a bonfire. This can lead to uncontrolled fires and serious injuries.
- Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from the bonfire at all times. Encourage children to stay away, and ensure pets are kept well away from the fire.
- Have a water supply readily available: Keep a hosepipe or bucket of water close at hand in case of emergencies.
- Supervise children at all times: Never leave children unsupervised near a bonfire.
- Extinguish the fire completely: After the bonfire has burnt down, make sure the embers are completely extinguished before leaving the site.
Fireworks Safety
- Only buy fireworks from a reputable retailer: Ensure the fireworks are licensed and carry a safety mark.
- Read and follow the instructions carefully: Pay close attention to the instructions provided on each firework and only use them as directed.
- Never hold fireworks in your hand: Always use a firework launcher or stand.
- Light fireworks at arm's length: Use a long taper to light fireworks.
- Keep fireworks away from people and property: Ensure fireworks are aimed away from buildings, trees, and people.
- Never return to a firework once it's lit: If a firework fails to ignite, don’t return to it. Leave it for at least 30 minutes, and then soak it in water before disposing of it.
- Keep pets indoors: Keep your pets indoors during firework displays. The loud noises can be very frightening for animals.
Additional Safety Tips
- Wear sensible clothing: Wear warm, comfortable clothes and sturdy footwear.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for hazards, such as tripping over objects or getting too close to the bonfire.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you're enjoying a bonfire display for a longer period.
Avon Fire & Rescue Services
Avon Fire & Rescue Service is dedicated to keeping our communities safe. We offer a range of services to help you stay safe during Bonfire Night, including:
- Fire safety advice and information: We can provide you with expert advice and information on how to stay safe during Bonfire Night.
- Home fire safety checks: We can visit your home and provide a free fire safety check, identifying any potential hazards and recommending ways to improve your safety.
- Fire safety training: We offer fire safety training courses for individuals and organizations, equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to stay safe.
Enjoy Bonfire Night Safely
By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that Bonfire Night is a memorable and safe occasion for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns about fire safety, please contact Avon Fire & Rescue Service.
Remember, a little precaution can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe.