Stay safe this Bonfire Night

Fireworks Night is a fun time. There's nothing better on a dark November evening than having your own bonfire and fireworks in your back garden. Dodge the crowds and invite family and friends round to celebrate. Put some baked potatoes in the fire. Make some pea and ham soup and have a warming drink or two.

But remember - keep your family and pets safe this Bonfire Night.

Here are some safety tips from the Royal Society for the prevention of accident (RoSPA):

• Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable
• Keep your fireworks in a closed box - an old biscuit tin is perfect - and use them one at a time
• Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
• Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back
• Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
• Never return to a firework once it has been lit
• Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
• Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
• Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
• It is recommended that sparklers are not given to under-5s
• Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves
• Hold sparklers at arm’s length while being lit
• Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people
• Never hold a baby in your arms while you are holding a sparkler
• When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water.
• One person should be responsible for the bonfire and children should be supervised
• Choose a site away from wooden fences, sheds and where children will be playing
• Never pour petrol, paraffin or meths on to a fire - it’s safer to use fire lighters to prevent flare-ups
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case of an accident
• Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair
• After the party, pour water on the fire, rather than leaving it to burn out.

For more on firework safety visit https://www.rospa.com/home-safety/advice/fireworks-safety/
And remember, have fun.