Stay Safe This Bonfire Night

Published: 03 November 2023

As the 5th of November approaches, we would like to remind people to stay safe this weekend

Do’s:

Only buy fireworks from reputable stockists. Follow safety advice carefully, stand well back and never return to an unlit firework or throw it onto the bonfire
Keep all pets indoors
If there is livestock in nearby fields, let the owner know your plans, as they can be easily spooked
Spare a thought for the wildlife, as hedgehogs, toads, frogs, lizards, and snakes may have nestled under the bonfire
Build the bonfire as close to the day as possible and as far away as possible from livestock, trees, bird boxes and bat boxes. A big pile of branches and leaves may look like a 5* hotel to a hedgehog. Please check carefully before lighting the fire and light the fire from one side to give wildlife an escape route from the flames
Have a sand bucket for spent sparklers; don’t leave them on the ground

Don’ts:

Never burn plastics, tyres, treated wood, gas canisters, oil, or electrical items. Your local household recycling centre will accept all of these items
Don’t be tempted to burn old bits of furniture, mattresses and household rubbish because the toxic fumes will cause pollution and damage people’s health
Don’t build your bonfire close to garden sheds, houses and even nearby roads where smoke could affect the visibility of motorists
Never leave your fire unattended and ensure it is well and truly out before leaving the site