On Reflection - Fireworks safety campaign

Date published: 25/10/2007

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has launched its latest hard-hitting campaign in a bid to drive down firework related accidents during the 2007 Bonfire period.

During 2005 and 2006 the fire service dealt with 45 people who had been injured in a bonfire related incident and 29 who had been injured by fireworks.

This year’s campaign targets young teenagers, the most "at risk" group from firework injuries.

The campaign consists of a radio advert vividly describing what it is like to be hit by a firework and billboard posters showing a young boy who has been badly disfigured after misusing fireworks.

Assistant County Fire Officer for Fire Safety Steve Beckley said: "These adverts will definitely make people think. Our statistics show that you are far safer at a properly organised fireworks display than lighting them yourself at your own bonfire party or playing with them in the street. The image on the poster shows the reality of what we come across every year, the horrible scars these fireworks can leave on a person’s life if they are not used sensibly."

The Service has issued the following safety advice for this years bonfire period:

• Always attend an officially recognised  bonfire/fireworks display.

Fireworks

• If you must have your own fireworks party, leave the lighting of the fireworks to a responsible adult.
• Only ever buy fireworks from a reputable retailer.
• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.
• Keep fireworks in a closed metal box.
• Follow the instructions on each firework.
• Light them at arm’s length using a taper.
• Stand well back.
• Never go back to a lit firework.
• Never put fireworks in your pocket.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby if you are setting off fireworks in your garden.
• Never throw fireworks.
• Keep pets indoors.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix and may lead to injury.

Bonfires

• Never build your bonfire too close to overhead cables or nearby property. Bonfires should be 18 metres from buildings, trees, fences, overhead cables and car parking areas.
• Bonfires should be no more than 3 metres in height.  There should be a suitable barrier around the bonfire to keep spectators 5 metres away.
• Always check your bonfire before it is lit, children have been known to build dens inside them.
• Do not use petrol, paraffin, diesel, white spirit or methylated spirit to light the bonfire – use firelighters instead.
• Do Not Burn aerosols, batteries, bottles, foam-filled furniture, tins of paint or tyres.
• Keep some buckets of water nearby in case of emergency and to damp down after the event.
• Always extinguish your bonfire once your party has finished.
• Bonfires built on council land without permission will be removed.