Fire service warning ahead of bonfire night in East Sussex

Emergency services are preparing for people to have their own bonfires due to Covid restrictions, prompting a warning from East Sussex Fire & Rescue.

The fire service is joining forces with other emergency services to help keep people safe this bonfire and fireworks season.

With many organised events cancelled, emergency services are getting ready for a busier night than usual as people celebrate in their own gardens.

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The fire service says people need to respect the equipment, and that whilst most people enjoy fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause real misery.

The service says to remember that fireworks are explosive and should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

People should also follow the Firework Code:

Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm.

Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time.

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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.

Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.

Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

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The service also ask people to think of the emergency services, and not to take risks that would put additional pressures on the services.  

Injuries can be prevented by following the Firework Code.

If you do suffer a burn, people should:

Cool the burn under cold running water for at least 10 minutes.

After the burn has been cooled, cover it with cling film or a clean plastic bag.

Call 999 if necessary. 

Always seek medical advice for a baby or child that has been burned.

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The service urges people to respect their neighbours and surrounding animals.

Fireworks can frighten people and animals. The elderly and children are frequently scared and intimidated by firework noise.

In a recent survey, 62 per cent of dog owners reported their pets showing signs of distress during fireworks season, with 54 per cent of cat owners experiencing the same.

The service is supporting RSPCA’s Bang Out Of Order campaign - this encourages the responsible use of fireworks and the adoption of tighter regulations concerning their use. 

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Tell your neighbours if you are planning on letting off fireworks and avoid purchasing really loud ones. 

Please be considerate when having a firework party and make sure the noise is over by 11pm. 

You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:

Bonfire night - the cut off is midnight.

New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year - the cut off is 1am for those nights.

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The service want to remind people that you must be over 18 to purchase fireworks, and that it is illegal to set off or throw fireworks and sparklers in the street or other public places.

People can be fined £5,000 and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. There is also an on-the-spot fine of £90.