A ‘clear head’ for Bonfire Night
Warwickshire County Council is supporting a national campaign by the Department for Business Enterprise & Regulatory Reform, reminding people to take extra care when dealing with fireworks at home.
Firework parties with friends and family have become increasingly popular over the past few years, but the majority of firework injuries happening on those occasions and over half of those injuries are to children.
In most cases alcohol is present, so the campaign is targeting Dads, amongst others, with warnings about the risks of drinking alcohol while lighting fireworks.
Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, Trading Standards and Warwickshire DAAT are working together to ensure safe Guy Fawkes and Diwali celebrations.
Cllr Richard Hobbs, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Protection, said: “According to national research, around 8 in 10 people have said those setting off their fireworks have consumed around 2 to 3 units of alcohol beforehand.
“Not only does the consumption of alcohol increase the risk of injury in these circumstances, it also affects the ability of adults to properly supervise children during the display.
“Having a clear head will help reduce the risk of accidents, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities.”
Government Minister for Trade, Investment and Consumer Affairs, Gareth Thomas said: “Millions of families love watching fireworks, but no-one wants to be a victim of the accidents that can and do happen.
“Even if you think you know how to handle fireworks, failing to follow the Firework Code properly puts you and your loved ones in danger. Each of us has a responsibility to take the right precautions with fireworks so we can all enjoy them safely this year.”
Here’s some commonsense advice to add to the well-known Firework Code:
• Never drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks or tending a bonfire.
• Nominate responsible persons who are not drinking alcohol to take charge of firework displays.
• If guests at your party are drinking alcohol, keep them well away from fireworks and the bonfire.
• Consider limiting the availability of alcohol until after all your fireworks have been set off.
• Don’t carry fireworks in your pocket to street parties or celebrations.
• Have an enjoyable party, but remember, alcohol and fireworks don’t mix.
For fire safety information, visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fireandrescue.
For consumer advice or advice for businesses selling fireworks, visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards.