Take care with fireworks, fire service urges

As Bonfire Night and Diwali approach Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue (BFRS) is asking people to take extra care following concerns that households having fireworks in their gardens could cause fires.

The call comes after the Service asked residents in the Cleat Hill area of Bedford to use fireworks with care following an explosion in Cleat Hill on 19 October.  

The fire service always recommends the public who wish to enjoy fireworks attend organised displays, which are much safer and controlled, reducing the risk of people being injured at home or causing fires which spread out of control.  

 Station Commander Matt Hyland, Prevention Manager at BFRS, said: “The period around Bonfire Night and Diwali can be busy for our firefighters and Fire Control. We are ready, willing and able to respond to incidents so please don’t hesitate to call us in an emergency, but we are asking people to help by considering alternative ways to celebrate safely.

“Our advice has always been that it’s safer to attend professional displays rather than using fireworks at home. Often going to an organised display can be cheaper than buying fireworks to use yourself and there are still lots of displays taking place across Bedfordshire.

“If you are having fireworks in your garden, it’s important to ensure you are buying safe fireworks. Only buy fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller and make sure they have a CE safety mark. If you’re drinking alcohol, don’t set off fireworks and never return to a firework once it’s been lit. Finally, always keep children safe and supervised – sparklers in particular can quickly cause serious burns even if they appear to be extinguished.”

Avoid building bonfires

BFRS is also urging to avoid building bonfires in gardens and to check their local authority’s guidance on bonfires. Those who choose to build a bonfire despite the warning are advised to build them far away from buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges and never leave them unattended.

Tips for those who can’t attend an official display:

Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time

Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary

Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks

Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them

Never return to a firework once it’s been lit

Under no circumstances set off fireworks on a balcony

If you’re having your own fireworks display, plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm

ENDS