Bonfire night safety reminder

Published 2 Nov 2009 17:00 0 Comments

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WITH bonfire night just around the corner, Thames Valley Police and their partners are reminding people to take extra care with fireworks and report any safety concerns.

Supt Tim De Meyer, Commander of Windsor and Maidenhead Local Policing Area (LPA), said: "We want to see people enjoying themselves, providing they do so responsibly and without putting anyone at risk. Parents and suppliers of fireworks need to take extra care. Any crime or anti-social behaviour linked to fireworks will be dealt with very firmly."

The Royal Borough's community safety partnership has issued the following advice:

* Keep fireworks in a closed metal box and take them out one at a time

* Follow the manufacturers' instructions on each firework. Read them by torchlight - never by naked flame

* Light fireworks at arm's length using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick

* Stand back after lighting

* Never go back to a firework once lit - it may go off in your face

* Keep pets indoors

* Never use flammable liquids, such as paraffin or petrol, to light the fire

* Keep everyone away from the fire - especially children, who must be supervised at all times

Cllr Colin Rayner, cabinet member with responsibility for community safety, said: "Bonfire night should be fun but safe and we are working hard to make sure the coming celebrations stay that way. We also urge consumers to take care when buying and using fireworks so everyone can enjoy the celebrations."

Complaints about firework misuse in public places should be reported to the police via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505 - this includes using fireworks during the night hours curfew from 11pm to 7am (except on November 5 when the curfew begins at midnight and on New Year's Eve when it begins at 1am).

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