Be safe, not sorry this Bonfire Night, fire brigade warn

Cleveland Fire Brigade have advised that the safest way to enjoy the night will be to attend an organised display, rather than having one at home.

Every year, people are injured and property is damaged due to the misuse of fireworks and unofficial bonfires.

Dave Turton, head of community safety, said: “Every year, children and adults are injured due to the misuse of fireworks and unofficial bonfires.

“The most common injuries are to the hand, wrists and eyes and a lot of these are caused by sparklers which is not surprising as they burn at over 2000 o C so we strongly advise not to use them.

“We want everyone to enjoy their bonfire night so please heed our advice to ‘Be Safe, Not Sorry.”

An organised display is taking place on Seaton Carew Front from 4.30pm on Saturday, with the display starting at 6.30pm.

The fire brigade have also said that if you decide to buy fireworks, you should buy them from licensed premises and always follow the firework code:

- Buy fireworks which comply with the British Standard (BS7114)

- Only people aged 18 or over can legally purchase fireworks.

- Keep fireworks in a closed box

- Only adults should set fireworks off

- Follow the instructions on each firework

- Light all fireworks at arms-length

- Stand well back

- Always supervise children around fireworks

- Keep pets indoors

- Never go back to a lit firework

- Never put fireworks in your pocket

- Never throw fireworks

- Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks

- Don’t let off fireworks after 11pm

A short video can be viewed at www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/bonfire showing what happened to a teenager when an illegal bonfire was set, based on a real life story.

You can report illegal firework sales to Trading Standards in Hartlepool on 01429 523361.