Safe Bonfire Night: Avon Fire & Rescue Guide
Bonfire Night, or Fireworks Night, is a time for celebration and fun, but it's also a time when the risk of fire increases significantly. To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, Avon Fire & Rescue has compiled this comprehensive guide with essential safety tips.
Planning for a Safe Bonfire
Before you light a bonfire, consider these important factors:
- Location: Choose a safe, open area away from buildings, trees, fences, and power lines. The ground should be clear of flammable materials like dry leaves and grass.
- Fire Pit: Use a sturdy, metal container for your bonfire. Avoid using flammable materials like oil drums or plastic barrels.
- Water Supply: Keep a readily available source of water nearby, like a garden hose, bucket, or fire extinguisher.
- Clear the Area: Remove any flammable objects from the bonfire area, including decorations, garden furniture, and even garden hoses.
- Safe Distance: Ensure a safe distance between the bonfire and any spectators. Children should always be supervised by adults.
Bonfire Safety Tips
- Start Small: Use dry kindling to start your bonfire, gradually adding larger pieces of wood as the flames grow.
- Never Leave It Unattended: Never leave a bonfire unattended. Assign someone responsible for monitoring it throughout the event.
- Fueling the Fire: Only add wood to the fire, avoiding any flammable materials like fireworks, aerosols, or chemicals.
- Burning Restrictions: Be aware of local burning restrictions and follow them strictly.
- Extinguish Properly: After the bonfire has burned out, ensure the ashes are completely cold before disposing of them.
Firework Safety: A Crucial Element
Fireworks are a major part of Bonfire Night, and it's crucial to handle them responsibly:
- Buy from a Reputable Source: Only purchase fireworks from licensed retailers, and check for a safety mark on the packaging.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Before lighting any firework, read the instructions thoroughly and follow them precisely.
- Safety Area: Set up a designated firework area away from buildings, trees, and crowds.
- Lighting Fireworks: Always light fireworks one at a time, holding them at arm's length using a long taper. Never light fireworks in your hand or in a container.
- Never Return to Lit Fireworks: Once a firework has been lit, do not return to it.
- Keep Fireworks Away from Children: Children should never be allowed to handle fireworks, even under adult supervision.
What to Do in Case of Fire
- Call 999 Immediately: Don't hesitate, call 999 in case of fire.
- Stay Calm: Stay calm and assess the situation.
- Use a Fire Extinguisher: If you have a fire extinguisher, use it to extinguish the fire safely.
- Evacuate the Area: If the fire is spreading, evacuate the area and move to a safe distance.
Enjoy Bonfire Night Safely
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy Bonfire Night safely and responsibly. Avon Fire & Rescue wishes everyone a memorable and incident-free celebration.
Remember: Always prioritize safety over everything else. If you have any doubts or questions, don't hesitate to contact Avon Fire & Rescue for guidance.
Please note: This is just a basic guide. For comprehensive information and specific safety regulations, visit the official website of Avon Fire & Rescue.
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