North Wales Fire Service, Ambulance, Police unite in Bonfire Night safety appeal
North Wales emergency services have issued a joint appeal urging residents to celebrate safely this Bonfire and Fireworks season by attending organised displays, following safety guidelines, and being mindful of their neighbours.
The North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust, and North Wales Police are working together to reduce risks and ensure that festivities remain safe.
Paul Kay, Head of Fire Safety for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, noted a promising decrease in firework-related incidents in recent years, attributing it to public willingness to attend organised displays rather than setting off fireworks at home. He encouraged residents to view a list of supported displays in North Wales on the fire service’s website, adding, “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.”
To guide safe celebrations, the Fire Service has outlined key tips in the Firework Code, advising that all fireworks should bear the CE mark and be handled in strict accordance with instructions.
Safety tips include completing displays before 11 p.m., using fireworks one at a time, and standing well back after lighting them. Paul Kay emphasised the importance of using only approved fireworks and refraining from carrying fireworks in pockets or throwing them.
The Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust is also urging residents to exercise caution, especially around fire hazards, to avoid avoidable injuries.
Judith Bryce, Assistant Director of Operations, reminded the public, “Burns injuries, especially, can be avoided by following the Firework code.” She advised anyone suffering a burn to cool the area with lukewarm water for 20 minutes, remove restrictive clothing, and seek medical advice if necessary. The trust is asking people to reserve emergency department visits for severe injuries and emergencies to reduce demand on health services during this busy season.
For North Wales Police, public safety is paramount, and the service will be increasing its presence in communities over the season to deter anti-social behaviour. Chief Inspector Siobhan Edwards commented, “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 use the period as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially.” She encouraged residents to register for North Wales Community Alerts to stay updated on local news and safety initiatives.
Residents are reminded to adhere to noise guidelines and respect neighbours by ending firework celebrations by 11 p.m., with exceptions only for Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year.
As Bonfire Night approaches, North Wales emergency services hope their joint efforts and community support will result in a safe and enjoyable season for all.
Stay safe and follow the Firework Code.
Fire Service advice is:
- 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.
