Fire brigade says have a safe Bonfire Night (From Ealing Times)

Fire brigade says have a safe Bonfire Night

10:23am Friday 27th October 2006

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THE London Fire Brigade expects to be called to about 400 incidents involving bonfires and fireworks around November 5.

"Each year the brigade is called to a large number of incidents around bonfire night that result in unnecessary injuries and extensive damage to property," said Assistant Commissioner for community safety Steve Turek.

"If you are organising your own celebrations at home then please follow all the safety guidelines.

"Better still, why not go along to one of the fireworks displays being organised in your local area for a safe and enjoyable Guy Fawkes."

If you are organising a firework display or bonfire at home, the brigade urges you to follow these safety guidelines: Only buy fireworks marked with the British Standard kitemark BS7114 Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

Keep them in a closed box, preferably a metal one.

Follow the instructions on each firework.

Light them at arms-length using a taper and stand well back.

Never go back to them once they are lit.

Even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode.

Never throw fireworks and never put them in your pocket.

Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves and never give them to children under five.

When a sparkler goes out, don't touch it, it could still burn you so put it hot end down in a bucket of water.

Keep your pets indoors throughout the evening.

Build your bonfire well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges.

Never use flammable liquids to help start a bonfire and never burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans, paint tins, foam furniture or batteries.

Don't leave bonfires unattended. An adult should supervise it until it has burnt out. If it has to be left, damp it down with water.

Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of emergency. You can use a hosepipe in an emergency during a hosepipe ban.

For more information on firework and bonfire safety, see the London Fire Brigade website www.londonfire.gov.uk.

To take advantage of a free home fire safety check call us on 08000 284428 or e-mail smokealarms@london-fire.gov.uk.

Local firefighters will visit your home, offer fire safety advice and fit a smoke alarm for free if necessary.

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