North Wales emergency services unite for Bonfire Night safety appeal
Emergency services across North Wales are joining forces to help keep the public safe this Bonfire and fireworks season.
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, North Wales Police and the Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust have launched a joint appeal encouraging people to act responsibly, follow the Firework Code and attend organised displays where possible.
Jody McEachern, Head of Prevention for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The number of incidents involving fireworks and bonfires we attend has reduced dramatically as the public have listened to our plea to attend organised displays rather than setting off their own fireworks at home.
“You can view a list of the organised displays we are supporting in North Wales on our website. If you do decide to set off fireworks or have a bonfire, we would appeal to everyone to show RESPECT by following the advice set out below.”
The Fire Service reminded residents that fireworks are explosives and should be handled carefully and only used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Advice includes planning displays in advance, ensuring they finish before 11pm, buying only CE-marked fireworks, keeping them in a closed box, lighting them at arm’s length, and never returning to a lit firework. People are also urged to avoid using petrol or paraffin on bonfires and to make sure fires are completely extinguished before leaving.
Judith Bryce, Assistant Director of Operations for the Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust, said: “On what is a high-pressure night for all emergency services across the region, we are urging the public to help safeguard themselves, their families, neighbours and friends by staying safe and not taking risks.
“Burns injuries, especially, can be avoided by following the Firework Code.”
She advised that if someone suffers a burn, they should be moved away from the heat source, the burn cooled with lukewarm water for 20 minutes, and the area covered with cling film or a clean plastic bag. Only severe trauma or life-threatening injuries should result in a 999 call.
Residents are also being reminded to respect their neighbours, particularly children, older people and pet owners, as fireworks can be frightening for people and animals.
Chief Inspector Siobhan Edwards of North Wales Police said: “We hope that this year, as has been the case on previous years, people take a responsible attitude to Bonfire Night. We know the majority of people enjoy this time of year sensibly and we are not out to spoil their fun but unfortunately there is a minority who are intent on causing problems and use the period as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially.
“We want to work with our communities to ensure that they can enjoy themselves safely. Our teams, alongside partners, will be out and about across the region – helping to educate, reassure and keep our communities safe.”
She added that demand on emergency services increases at this time of year, and urged people to contact the most relevant agency to help keep phone lines free for emergencies.
More safety information and details of organised displays are available on the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service website
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
