'Be Safe And Show Respect' Says West Sussex Fire And Rescue As Fireworks Season Approaches

Wednesday, 21 October 2020 08:14

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has released advice for residents in the region as bonfire and fireworks season approaches.

With many organised events cancelled, emergency services are preparing for a busier night than usual as people celebrate in their own gardens, and urging those taking part to be safe and to show respect.

Nicki Peddle, Head of Prevention, said:

"Whilst most people enjoy fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause real misery. 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 Firework Code is a list of guidelines designed to keep everyone safe:

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.
Respect the Emergency Services

With the impact of COVID-19, the emergency services are asking the public to avoid adding additional pressures to their resources.

Injuries can be prevented by following the Firework Code. If you do suffer a burn, ensure you:

Cool the burn under cold running water for at least ten minutes.
After the burn has been cooled, cover it with cling film or a clean plastic bag.
Call 999 if necessary. Always seek medical advice for a baby or child that has been burned."
Respect your neighbours (and animals!)

Fireworks can frighten people and animals. The elderly and children are frequently scared and intimidated by firework noise. After all, fireworks are explosives.

The advice is to tell your neighbours if you're planning on letting off fireworks and avoid purchasing really noisy ones, and to make sure that all fireworks are over by 11pm, except bonfire night, when the cut off is midnight.