NORTH Wales Fire and Rescue Service is joining forces with the Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust and North Wales Police in an appeal to help keep people safe this bonfire and fireworks season.

It comes as the emergency services expect to face an up-turn in demand around Bonfire Night. 

Paul Kay, head of fire safety for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The number of incidents involving fireworks and bonfires we attend has reduced dramatically as the public have listened to our plea to attend organised displays rather than setting off their own fireworks at home.

“You can view a list of the organised displays we are supporting in North Wales on our website here.

“If you do decide to set off fireworks or have a bonfire, we would appeal to everyone to show respect by following the advice set out below.”

Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.

The fire service urges people to:

  • Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm.
  • 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.
  • Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
  • Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Judith Bryce, assistant director of Operations for the Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust, said: “On what is a high-pressure night for all emergency services across the region, we are urging the public to help safeguard themselves, their families, neighbours and friends by staying safe and not taking risks."

Fireworks can frighten people and animals. The elderly and children are frequently scared and intimidated by firework noise. Tell your neighbours if you’re a planning on letting off fireworks and avoid purchasing really noisy ones. Please be considerate when having a firework party and make sure the noise is over by 11pm. 

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You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight and New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am.

Chief Inspector Siobhan Edwards of North Wales Police said: “We hope that this year, as has been the case on previous years, people take a responsible attitude to Bonfire Night.

"We know the majority of people enjoy this time of year sensibly and we are not out to spoil their fun but unfortunately there is a minority who are intent on causing problems and use the period as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially. We want to work with our communities to ensure that they can enjoy themselves safely."