Enjoy Bonfire Night responsibly this year

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Staffordshire Police and partners are urging residents to celebrate Bonfire Night responsibly this autumn.

Although this event is a cause for celebration for many people across the region, the dangers of fireworks must be considered.

Mark Walchester, Head of Prevent and Protect at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Bonfire Night and the days surrounding it can be busy for our firefighters. We would advise people to attend a professionally organised display because we know they are much safer with few significant injuries occurring and first aid on hand.

“If you do choose to celebrate with fireworks at home, please plan very carefully. Take care and remember to follow the firework code.

“Playing with fireworks is dangerous so make sure to keep them in a locked and secure container, away from reach of children.

“We don’t recommend having a bonfire in your garden. They can easily get out of hand and spread quickly to hedges, overhanging tress and garages, even to the house.

“If you do decide to have one in your garden, please follow the advice on our website.”

Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care, added: “It is fantastic for people to be able to once again enjoy Bonfire night. The key thing, however, is that we celebrate safely.

“Covid-19 cases are still high, so it is probably sensible to keep to smaller groups if you can, meet up outdoors and have a Covid-19 lateral flow test if you are planning to attend any indoor events.”

Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader Abi Brown added: “We’ve all missed out on enjoying these occasions during the pandemic, so it is great to be able to do so now and enjoy the celebration.

“We can all have fun at this time of year without causing anti-social behaviour and without putting ourselves or others at risk by not understanding the dangers that fireworks can pose. We work closely with the police and fire service to support communities, and will continue to do so over this period. I encourage everyone to enjoy themselves safely.”