Top tips to keep everyone safe and happy on Bonfire Night

It’s the run up to 5 November and no doubt people are planning to celebrate the occasion with family and friends.

Please remember the firework code and celebrate Bonfire Night in a safe and happy atmosphere.  There are lots of organised fireworks displays around the borough, where people can have fun and not have the responsibility of having to buy and release their own fireworks.

Not everyone is aware about how fireworks can affect both pets and wildlife.  Research from the RSPCA shows that a huge 64% of animals are negatively impacted by private firework displays, and 55% of pet and livestock owners dread firework season.  They have just launched their #BeAKindSpark campaign.

Consider attending organised events to #BeAKindSpark this firework season. Find out more tips with RSPCA’s guide here: Be a firework friendly neighbour to animals | RSPCA - RSPCA - rspca.org.uk

If you’re planning your own private fireworks display - stay safe with the tips below:

• Speak to neighbours with pets beforehand to let them know so they can be prepared.
• Always buy from a licensed retailers and steer clear of buying fireworks from markets, car boots or private sellers.  Fireworks bought from these sources could be defective and may not meet UK safety requirements.
• Check that any fireworks purchased include a CE or UKCA safety mark.
• Store fireworks in a closed box and take them out one at a time.
• Follow the instructions on each firework. Use a torch to read them, never a naked flame.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby.
• Make sure everyone stands well back and pets are kept indoors.
• Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a taper.
• Never go back to a lit firework – even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.
• Don’t drink alcohol if you are responsible for setting off fireworks.

Figures show that more children get hurt by fireworks than adults so take extra care with little ones.

Officers from the Council’s Communities teams have been working closely with Cheshire Constabulary and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to reduce anti-social behaviour in communities across Cheshire West and Chester during both Halloween and Bonfire Night.  Communities officers work at the heart of our neighbourhoods and understand the problems that these celebrations can cause for some of our residents.

The Council’s StreetCare teams will also support colleagues in Cheshire’s emergency services by removing any unofficial bonfires and fly-tipped materials on Council land in the lead up to Bonfire Night.  If anyone sees an unofficial bonfire on Council land, please report it and we will arrange for it to be removed as soon as possible, if it is no longer burning.

Councillor Christine Warner, Cabinet Member for Homes, Planning and Safer Communities said: “Fireworks bring joy to many. But for your neighbours with pets, horses or livestock, it can be a time of intense stress.  Please  #BeAKindSpark this firework season by informing your neighbours beforehand and pick a good time for your display to take place – keep it short and sweet, and early in the evening.

“If you are holding a private display, please also know the rules, on Bonfire Night you can let off fireworks until midnight and on New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, until 1am.  It is an offence to let off fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am on any other day.

“Enjoy your 5 November celebrations and make sure everyone is happy and stays safe.”

You can report fly tipping to the Council’s StreetCare team online: Report fly tipping, litter, overgrown grass, dog fouling and abandoned vehicles.