Firefighters urge people not to light their own bonfires

Concerns are growing around the number of deliberate fires Cheshire firefighters are being called to, as Bonfire Night approaches, and how busy this time of year can be for crews in some areas of Cheshire.

The Service is actively trying to reduce the number of deliberate small fires they get called to this year so are urging people not to light a bonfire or have a firework display of their own, but instead go to an organised event which will be safer for everyone.

Station Manager Ryan Swindells is responsible for helping to prevent arson and deliberate fires. He said: “We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun, but our priority is to ensure public safety. Every year we are called to extinguish many nuisance or unattended fires, but we also get called when a bonfire gets out of control and spreads to nearby property, sheds, hedges or fences. Our time is precious so please think before lighting a bonfire of your own this year.”

If you spot a build-up of rubbish, intended to be used as a bonfire, report it to the local council immediately for removal, using the relevant number:

• Halton call 0303 333 4300
• Warrington call 01925 443322
• Cheshire East call 0300 123 5011
• Cheshire West and Chester call 0300 123 7026

If you decide to hold your own bonfire then ensure it is safe to do so and that the pile is situated away from any property which includes sheds, fences and hedges and never leave a lit fire unattended. If you are using fireworks then please follow the Firework Code to help keep you, your family and your neighbours safe this year.

Ryan added: “To avoid our crews being called out unnecessarily please ensure your wheelie bins are locked away until the day of collection. This simple act will help us greatly and ensure our resources are always available for the real emergencies.

“If you are tempted to set fireworks off in your garden then always follow the Firework Code and be courteous and let your neighbours know what’s happening, so they can be prepared. We don’t know what may be going on in people’s lives or if they have a nervous pet inside so let’s all do our best to look out for one another during this time.”

For more information about bonfire and firework safety please visit the website:

http://www.cheshirefire.gov.uk