Warning to keep fireworks away from thatch

Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service is warning householders to take extra care in the run-up to fireworks night on 5 November.

With fireworks now readily available in local shops, the risk of property being affected by fire has increased.

Group Manager Alan Harper, from the community safety department, said that fireworks have to be used, stored and handled safely. “While most people enjoy fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause real misery. There is a particular risk to thatched properties, and we would urge people living in such houses to consider attending organised fireworks events rather than having them at home. People living near thatched properties should also take extra care.”

Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturers instructions and the Firework Code:

• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114
• Don’t drink alcohol if you’re setting off fireworks
• Keep fireworks in a closed box
• Follow the instructions on each firework
• Light fireworks at arm’s length, using the taper provided
• Stand well back
• Never go near a firework that has been lit - even if it hasn't gone off it could still explode
• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
• Always supervise children around fireworks
• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
• Never give sparklers to a child under five
• Keep pets indoors
• Don’t set off noisy fireworks late at night and never after 11pm
• Take care around open flames such as bonfires and barbecues - all clothes, even those labelled ‘low flammability’, can catch fire

For further safety advice in the run-up to fireworks night, visit www.wiltsfire.gov.uk

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