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HAVE FUN BUT STAY SAFE WITH FIREWORKS

Having fun but staying safe is the message from Kent Fire and Rescue Service as the firework and bonfire season is now upon us.

In a bid to help prevent firework and bonfire-related injuries, KFRS is urging the people to take extra care this year and follow a few basic tips to keep you and your family safe.

These include:

• Always follow the DTI’s firework code (log onto www.dti.gov.uk/fireworks)

• A bonfire should not be lit before any firework display unless the firework display is sufficiently far away to ensure stray sparks from the bonfire cannot fall into the firework area.

• A bonfire should not contain any potentially hazardous materials which may explode or give off toxic fumes, such as; aerosols, batteries, bottles, foam-filled furniture or tins of paint

• A bonfire should be kept to a manageable size and evenly built so that is collapses inwards as it burns.

• Always check the bonfire’s construction is still sound prior to lighting it, that there are no children or animals inside, and that hazardous items such as aerosols and fireworks have not been thrown onto it.

• The bonfire should not be lit by children or left unattended and nothing should be cooked on it.

• Flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, methylated spirits or white spirit should NEVER be poured onto the bonfire to light or revive it. 

• Enjoy your fireworks event!

Head of Community Fire Safety Stuart Skilton said: “Bonfire and firework season should be an enjoyable time of year but sometimes it can end in someone either being injured or property damaged. Always treat fireworks with care and respect and, when holding a bonfire event, follow the simple tips provided.�

For more fire safety tips log onto www.kent.fire-uk.org, alternatively call 01622 698360 or contact your nearest fire safety office or fire station.