Consider your neighbours on bonfire night

SKDC is urging those planning to celebrate bonfire night to be considerate of their neighbours during the firework fun.

The council advises the following tips to stay safe and make sure you stay within the guidelines so everyone can enjoy Guy Fawkes night in the right spirit.

Know the law

• It is illegal to let fireworks off between 11pm and 7am
• On November 5, bonfire night itself, no fireworks should be lit before 11am and after midnight
• It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase fireworks
• For bonfire night, fireworks can only be sold between October 15 and November 10
• It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess fireworks in a public place

Give neighbours notice of your bonfire or firework plans

If holding your own bonfire, or set to light fireworks at home, give your neighbours notice of your planned event.

Those who live close by are far more likely to have issues with the small amount of noise or smoke pollution with your activities if they are informed of it.

If a neighbour informs you they are being disturbed, be considerate of their concerns.

You should also be very careful what you burn as part of a bonfire. Never burn tyres, or any form of plastic and make sure gas cylinders or combustible materials are kept well away from a lit bonfire.

Go to an organised event

Those in charge of organised events have to ensure that their bonfire and fireworks displays are safe. The displays are usually very impressive and it’s a great way to get together with family and friends. Plus, you don’t have to worry about cleaning up afterwards!

Remember – it’s hot

Sparklers look so good that sometimes people can forget that they’re hot, and that they stay hot even after they’re put out.

 

If you’re using sparklers make sure that those who will be holding them wear gloves, only light them one at a time, never give a sparkler to a child under the age of five, supervise children and young people, and make sure that the sparklers are put out safely.

Look after your pets

Animals can become very distressed by the sound of fireworks. If you decide not to attend an organised event and are having your own bonfire, please check animals are not in it before it is lit and if you know neighbours have pets, inform them you’re going to have a bonfire.

 

SKDC’s executive manager for environment Ian Yates said: “We want everyone to have an enjoyable bonfire night whilst ensuring they stay safe and respects residents in their neighbourhoods.

“Keeping a few straight forward rules means everyone from retailers through to residents, neighbours and their communities can enjoy themselves and have safe and fun events to remember for the right reasons.”