Fire service hopes for safe - not sorry - bonfire night

The fire service is urging people to be safe, not sorry, this bonfire night.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service say following a few simple steps could help prevent a bonfire from becoming uncontrollable.

The fire brigade is also asking people to check bonfires for wildlife before lighting.

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Bonfires always present certain hazards, but more so when it is dark.

“Fire can spread easily, so where and how you build your bonfire is important.

“Hibernating animals - wild creatures such as hedgehogs, and pets such as tortoises, often find bonfires very attractive. The piles of warm dry material look like a good prospect for a long winter’s sleep.

“If your bonfire is a small one, check it thoroughly, in daylight but as late as you can before lighting it.”

The fire service has released the following safety advice:

• Site the bonfire, well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs and always away from fireworks.

• Before lighting the fire check that no pets or even a young child hiding inside it.

• Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side.

• Never use flammable liquids – paraffin or petrol – to light the fire

• don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols, and tins of paint or bottles

• Keep everyone a safe distance away, and do not allow anyone to throw anything onto it

• Keep everyone away from the fire – especially children, who must be supervised all the time. Loose clothing can very easily catch alight and should never be worn near any fire. Long scarves can be risky too

• In case of an emergency keep buckets of water, the garden hose or a fire extinguisher ready

• Pour water on the embers before leaving.

Further information about bonfire safety and the law can be found at http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/Escapingandrecoveringfromafire/DG_180786