Families are being urged to keep themselves and others safe this Bonfire Night by doing lateral flow tests before attending events and following the fire service’s safety advice.
Organised displays are much safer than lighting fireworks at home, which can result in people getting hurt. But with high levels of Covid cases across the county, people are being urged to do lateral flow tests before heading to events or socialising with others, and to avoid crowded areas.
While November 5th is a highlight for many, bonfires and fireworks can be dangerous and cause a nuisance for neighbours and animals. Remember that smoke coming in through windows can cause issues for people with breathing problems and fireworks can be really stressful for people, especially those with pets.
Scott Brown, from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s Prevention Team, said: “We advise people against having bonfires and fireworks at home as they can result in painful injuries for many people, including very young children.
“We all know that sparklers can be great fun but remember they are not toys. They get five times hotter than cooking oil and can cause serious burns so make sure children with sparklers are closely supervised and never give sparklers to youngsters under the age of five. Stick them into a vegetable, such as a carrot or parsnip, to protect your hands and always keep a bucket of water nearby so you can put your spent sparklers in there.
“And if you must have a bonfire, please let us know in advance. This helps us avoid sending fire engines to false alarms when they could be responding to a real emergency.”
To notify Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service about a bonfire call 0203 162 2240 and tell the critical control operator where and when the bonfire will be lit.
Fireworks safety tips from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service
Cornwall Council’s Public Health Team is reminding people to be covid aware and considerate to others.
Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “We know that people want to have a good time but we are still seeing high levels of covid in Cornwall so we ask that people are responsible and considerate towards others.
“If you’re not feeling well, the best thing to do is stay home and rest up. If you are planning to go to an event, please do a lateral flow test before heading out and try to stay away from crowded places.
“In busy areas we advise that you wear a mask and remember to wash and sanitise your hands. If we all follow these simple steps, we can help reduce the spread of the virus.”
Lateral flow tests can be picked up from local pharmacies. If you give the pharmacy a 'collect code' when you pick up the tests, it helps the NHS match your details to the tests.
If you are celebrating at home, make sure you follow Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service’s BONFIRE code:
B – Build your bonfire away from buildings, trees, fences and sheds.
O – Observers should be kept at a safe distance.
N – Notify Fire Control if you decide to have a bonfire on 02031 622240.
F – Fuels and accelerants should never be used on fires.
I – In case of emergency, always have a water supply to hand.
R – Returning to fireworks once lit is a NO, NO!
E – Extinguish all fires before leaving them.
Anyone planning to have fireworks or bonfires at home should read the full safety guidance on the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service pages.
Press release published on November 2, 2021
