After a reduction in Bonfire Night (November 5) calls of almost 20% from 2021 to 2022, Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) are calling for local people take extra care to continue this downward trend.
On Bonfire Night, firefighters are often called to out-of-control bonfires, firework related incidents and road traffic collisions. Thanks to local people listening to pertinent safety advice in recent years, AF&RS received 106 calls on 5 November 2022, compared with 132 on the same night in 2021.
Area Manager Vaughan Jenkins said: “We’re really pleased to see a reduction in calls with the knowledge that our communities are following our safety advice and keeping themselves safer.
“I’d urge anyone celebrating this Bonfire Night to take extra care and look out for those around them to help continue to keep us all safer.”
AF&RS gave these top tips for a safe and enjoyable time:
- Attend an organised firework display and avoid using fireworks at home.
- If you are purchasing fireworks, make sure you get them from a reputable retailer and always follow the instructions carefully.
- Whether you’re at home or out and about, always supervise children around sparklers or fireworks.
- Never return to a lit firework.
- Keep a bucket of water or hose on hand when using fireworks or sparklers.
- Children under five shouldn’t use sparklers, and older children still need to be supervised.
- Put a sparkler in a carrot and wear gloves to make it safer to hold.
- If your clothes catch on fire, remember: stop, drop and roll.
Vaughan added: “Remember, if you are in an emergency and you need our help, call 999 and ask for the fire service.”
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