Bonfire Night is almost upon us and whilst the night can be a lot of fun, its important to keep you and your family safe.
Here are some handy tips to help you to stay safe:
Sparklers
• Do not give sparklers to children under 5 years old
• Make sure everyone who handles sparklers wears gloves
• Sparklers should be held at arm’s length while being lit, and you should only light one at a time
• Don’t wave sparklers around close to other people
• Never hold a baby in your arms while you’re holding a sparkler
• When the sparkler has burned out, place it hot end down in a bucket of cold water or sand to put it out and leave it there for a few hours as they stay hot for a long time
Bonfires
We know that bonfires are a big part of the night, but you should go to an organised event, as your tenancy agreement states you should night light a bonfire in your garden or burn rubbish.
Plymouth Hoe will be lit up with a spectacular Bonfire and Fireworks display sponsored by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, find out more here.
Fireworks
• When you buy fireworks, always check that they carry the CE mark and have the code ‘BS 7114’. They should also be in a closed box
• Only one person should be in charge of fireworks – and ensure that person is responsible
• Make sure children are supervised at all times
• Fireworks always need to be set off form a clear, flat surface and away from any property, sheds, trees, shrubs or fences
• Never drink alcohol while you are letting off fireworks
• To set off a firework properly, light them at arm’s length with a taper – once lit, stand way back as they could fly off in the wrong direction
• Never go back to a lit firework
• Dispose of them correctly, soak them so they are wet and then double wrap them in plastic bags to stop them drying out in the bin
Pets
Bonfire Night can be a scary time for animals, so try to keep them inside wherever possible. Close your windows, turn on the TV and pull blinds or curtains to reduce the sound of the fireworks outside.
Be considerate
Be considerate to your neighbours and pre-warn them that you intend to light fireworks. Also, remember that it’s an offence to let off fireworks after 11pm, so time your display accordingly.
