Remember, remember fireworks safety on 5th November

As Bonfire Night approaches, Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people that the safest way to celebrate it is to attend a large professionally organised public event.

Chris Barber, Station Manager at Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue service said: “Where possible, residents should attend organised public firework displays. These community events bring people together and raise funds for local schools and charities. Organised fireworks displays are more fun, cheaper and far safer than hosting your own fireworks or bonfire party. If you are planning on using fireworks for a private event, keep the Fireworks safety Code in mind”. www.saferfireworks.com/

Top 12 tips for Bonfire Night

• Only buy CE marked fireworks from reputable and licensed shops

• Keep fireworks in a closed, metal box

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

• Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back

• Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks

• Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them

• Never drink alcohol while lighting a bonfire or setting off fireworks

• Supervise children at all times and don’t give sparklers to a child under five

• Keep your bonfire at least 18 metres away from houses, trees and hedges. There should be a barrier around the bonfire to keep spectators 5 meters awayBefore lighting a bonfire, check it is stable and that there are no children or animals inside

• Only burn dry wood, never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire and think about the direction of smoke travel

• Keep some buckets of water nearby

Councillor Judy Heathcoat, Oxfordshire County Council's cabinet member for Fire and Rescue, said: “I would encourage people to only buy fireworks from a reputable retailer to avoid being sold illegal or counterfeit products that can cause serious injury and harm. I would urge all to follow the advice of Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and attend only organised public displays. This is the safest option and we are lucky in Oxfordshire to have very many superb public displays on our doorsteps across the county”.

Here’s a list of fireworks displays in Oxfordshire: http://news.oxfordshire.gov.uk/fireworks-in-oxfordshire-2017/

This advice is part of 365alive, Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service’s vision to work every day to save and improve the lives of people across Oxfordshire. For more information, visit www.365alive.co.uk .

If you have concerns that sellers are not storing fireworks appropriately, selling fireworks that do not bear a CE mark or selling to those under 18, please report to Trading Standards via 03454 04 05 06