With less than a month to go before bonfire night North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public of North Wales to be safe with fireworks.
Gareth Griffiths, Senior Fire Safety Manager, said: “Safety at this time of year is the responsibility of us all. We cannot over emphasise that the best way to reduce the number of injuries during bonfire celebrations is by attending organised events. They are the safest type of displays, have the best facilities and offer the best value for money. Bonfire celebrations see an increase in anxiety for senior citizens and pet owners, so attending community events helps reduce this distress.
“If you must use fireworks yourself, please follow the fireworks safety code.”
The Firework Safety Code:
- Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.
- Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.
- Keep fireworks in a closed box.
- Follow the instructions on each firework.
- Light at arm’s length, using a taper.
- Stand well back.
- Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.
- Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.
- Always supervise children around fireworks.
- Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.
- Never give sparkles to a child under five.
- Keep pets indoors.
“If you are planning a bonfire, please notify North Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s Control Room by calling 01745 535 805.”
Deputy Chief Constable Ian Shannon from North Wales Police said: “Bonfire Night is an event that can be fun and exciting for youngsters and their families. However, we are urging people to be responsible with fireworks as Bonfire Night approaches and stay safe. We want people to enjoy themselves, and ensure the night is memorable for the right reasons so that people aren’t frightened, intimidated or harmed by the misuse of fireworks.
“We traditionally see an increase in the number of incidents of nuisance and disorder being reported on and around November 5th, and we would like to warn the minority of people that officers will respond strongly to reports of anti social behaviour which disrupts the lives of people in our communities.
“It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess an adult firework in a public place or to throw or let off a firework in the street or a public place. If caught committing these offences, you can expect officers to enforce the law. The safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a properly organised public display, it’s also much cheaper! I am urging people to think of others and to be sensible.
He added: “High-visibility patrols will be carried out across the force area and officers will be working closely with other agencies, such as the Fire and Rescue Service and local authorities.”
If you are aware of people misusing fireworks to either damage property or to cause injury, contact North Wales Police on 101, or in an emergency dial 999.
Alternatively send a text message to 66767 or email – [email protected]
Community Bonfire and Firework events in the North Wales area:
Rhyl – Showfiled, Rhuddlan Road, Rhyl. 5th November 7.30pm. Admission £2
Cerrig – Primary School 5th November 7.00pm £3 adults 1.50 children
Pwllheli – Old Island, Cob, Pwllheli 5th November. Free admission
Corwen – War Memorial Park 6.45pm 4th November
Buckley – Buckley Common 5th November 6.30pm. Free admission
Deeside – Wepre Park 5th November 7.30pm
Mold – Mold Alex Football Club 5th November 7pm. Admission £2 adults £1 children
Beaumaris – On the sea front 5th November 6.30pm
Aberdyfi – Behind the fire station 6th November 6.30pm. Free admission
Barmouth – On the harbour 5th November 6.30pm. Free admission.
