Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents in Essex to keep safe this bonfire and fireworks season.
With many organised events cancelled, emergency services are preparing for a busier night than usual as people celebrate in their own gardens. We are asking everyone to show RESPECT this Firework Night.
Respect the Firework
Will Newman Head of Prevention, said: “While most people use fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause serious injury. Remember that fireworks are explosives and should be treated with great respect and care. We don’t want you to remember November 5th for the wrong reasons and especially this year, we do not want to put extra pressure on the emergency services.
“Fireworks should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.
The Firework Code:-
Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm (12pm on Nov 5th)
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
Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
Never return to a firework once it has been lit
Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
Don’t build bonfires, they can spread out of control very quickly
Always supervise children around fireworks
Respect the Emergency Services
We are currently amidst a global pandemic and we are asking people not to take risks, putting additional pressures on our emergency services.
Marcus Bailey, Chief Operating Officer, East of England Ambulance Service said:
“Celebrating Halloween and Bonfire Night will look different for many people this year, however, our important messages remain: we would ask everyone to enjoy themselves safely, think of others, think hands, face and space in line with Government advice.
“It may not be possible to attend an organised fireworks event this year, so please be extra careful if you choose to have a firework display at home in line with COVID government guidance.
“Be mindful of the cold weather, it’s important to wrap up, especially for the very young or elderly.
“Please stay safe and help keep our staff free to look after those patients who need us most.”
Martin Palmer from the Children’s Burns Club said:
“You can avoid injuries by following the Fireworks Code, but if an accident does occur – remember;
- Cool the burn with running cold tap water for 20 minutes and remove all clothing and jewellery (unless it is melted or firmly stuck to the wound).
- Call for help for any burn larger than a 50p coin: 999, 111 or local GP for advice.
- Cover with cling film or a sterile, nonfluffy dressing or cloth. Make sure the patient is kept warm.
Respect your neighbours
Fireworks can frighten people and animals. The elderly and children are frequently scared and intimidated by firework noise. After all, fireworks are explosives. Tell your neighbours if you’re a planning on letting off fireworks and avoid purchasing really noisy ones.
Fireworks can also cause a great deal of distress to animals. In a recent survey, 62% of dog owners reported their pets showing signs of distress during fireworks season, with 54% of cat owners experiencing the same. We are supporting RSPCA’s ‘Bang Out Of Order’ campaign, encouraging the responsible use of fireworks and the adoption of tighter regulations concerning their use.
Show some respect this Bonfire Night.
