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Stay safe celebrating Bonfire Night

If you're marking November 5th with fireworks and bonfires, here are some tips for staying safe.

Jersey Fire and Rescue is reminding islanders of the dangers related to Bonfire Night.

Among their advice is to keep alcohol away from whoever is in charge of lighting a fire, fireworks or sparklers.

The service also suggests that spent fireworks should be immersed in water for 24 hours before they are thrown away.

✅ Buy fireworks from reputable sellers and look for CE or UKCA safety marks

✅ Never give fireworks to anyone under 18

✅ Follow the Firework Code and never relight a firework that fails to go off

✅ Keep alcohol away from the person in charge of fireworks

✅ Light sparklers one at a time, wear gloves, and never give sparklers to children under five

✅ Keep pets indoors and let neighbours know if you're planning a display

✅ Soak used fireworks in water for at least 24 hours before disposal

Station Commander Chris Smith told Channel 103: 

" If you are planning a bonfire, just think carefully about its location. It should be well away from homes, sheds, fences, vehicles and anything else that could catch fire.

"Never use any accelerants - such as petrol, diesel -  to start or revive a bonfire, because this can lead to unpredictable behaviour.

"We'd also encourage islanders to think about those around them. Fireworks can be distressing for pets, livestock, vulnerable people and other members of the community who may be sensitive to loud noises.

"Please remember that sparklers burn at high temperatures and they should be treated with the same care as other fireworks. So children should also be supervised and used sparklers should be placed in water once they've cooled down."

The JSPCA has created a guide to helping pets at this time of year.

Bonfire Night also poses a risk to wildlife, and anyone building one is askes to check for hedgehogs and other creatures before it is lit.

Islanders are encouraged to attend organised events.  St Martin's Bonfire is taking place on Saturday (7 November) raising money for FREEDA, Acorn Enterprises and Caring Cooks.

A public consultation about future fireworks regulation will open in December:

Read: 'Definitely a need' for islanders to have their say on fireworks

To be notified when it opens, email fireworks@gov.je with ‘Yes’ in the subject line.

More from Jersey News from Channel 103

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