Remember, remember to take care in November

AROUND this time of year people will be preparing for Bonfire night on 5 November and young children in particular will be looking forward to the evening.
Every year, nationally, there are hundreds of injuries caused as a direct result of fireworks. Over half of these are to children under the age of 16. That’s a lot of children growing up with burn scars.
Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service advise that, where possible, you attend a professionally organised event. These events normally have good quality displays with plenty of safety measures in place.
In an effort to make this Bonfire night a safe and enjoyable event, Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service recommend you follow this guide to keeping safe on fireworks night:
  • Only buy fireworks that comply with British Standard 7114 or its
  • European equivalent. Instructions should be in English.
  • Don’t drink alcohol if you're lighting fireworks.
  • Keep fireworks in a closed box.
  • Follow the instructions on each firework and be sure they're suitable for home use.
  • Light fireworks at arm's length using a taper.
  • Stand well back.
  • Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.
  • Never throw fireworks or put them in your pocket.
  • Always supervise children around fireworks.
  • Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.
  • Don't give sparklers to children under five.
  • Keep pets indoors.
  • And remember to have fun!
Further bonfire and firework safety information is available here: www.hifrs.org/Fireworks