Don’t go out with a bang on Bonfire Night

As Bonfire Night approaches, Dorset Police, Dorset Fire and Rescue Service and Dorset’s Trading Standards Service are working together to issue advice to all residents and visitors – to ensure a safe and enjoyable night for all.

Traditionally, Bonfire Night is a busy time of year for Dorset Police and to ensure the county remains safe – and all residents and visitors feel safe – Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be carrying out extra patrols throughout the Bonfire Night period.

Ivan Hancock, Divisional Trading Standards Manager for Dorset County Council, said: “I would remind people to only buy fireworks from a reputable supplier. If members of the public have concerns about any shops or outlets selling unsafe fireworks – or selling fireworks to under 18s – then they should contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.”

Roy Pinder, from Dorset Fire & Rescue Service said: “You should always follow the firework code to make sure that everyone has a good time without getting hurt.”

The Firework Code:

•     Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114
•     Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
•     Keep fireworks in a closed box
•     Follow the instructions on each firework
•     Light 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 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

Bonfire Advice:

•     Site well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs and always away from fireworks
•     Before lighting the fire, check that no pets or children are hiding inside it
•     Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side
•     Never use flammable liquids – paraffin or petrol – to light the fire
•     Don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols and tins of paint or bottles
•     Keep everyone away from the fire – especially children, who must be supervised at all times

In addition, Dorset Police is issuing the following advice about firework and bonfire displays:

•     Fireworks must not be let off after 11pm at night (this is extended up to midnight on 5 November itself)
•     Young people under the age of 18 cannot buy – or be in possession of – adult fireworks
•     Children must always have adult supervision at firework and bonfire displays
•     All firework and bonfire displays must be properly supervised
•     Safety advice that accompanies fireworks must be read and followed at all times
•     Always keep a bucket of water close by

If members of the public have any concerns then they can contact Dorset Police on 01202 / 01305 22 22 22. If life is in danger or a crime is in progress dial 999.