FIRE bosses who say that they attend ‘countless incidents’ each year – and in serious cases find people who are seriously hurt – have issued a plea for residents to remain safe on Bonfire Night.
Bonfire Night is set to take place on Thursday and will see thousands of locals attend organised bonfires as well as family events.
Despite the joy of seeing fireworks in the sky, the night is often a stressful one for firefighters across Barnsley.
Figures over a recent five-year period show that firefighters were called out to hundreds of blazes across the borough in recent years.
There were 35 incidents over the Bonfire period in 2021, 20 of which were started deliberately.
It’s an increase on the previous year’s figures, which saw 31 call outs to incidents across the borough – although this was much lower than the 81 incidents in 2019.
Before that anomaly, figures were rising year-on-year in Barnsley, with 46 incidents in 2018, 29 in 2017 and almost 40 in 2016.
Most of the blazes on each occasion were started deliberately.
Fire bosses have urged locals to be safe next week.
A spokesperson told the Chronicle: “We know bonfires and fireworks are popular, especially on Bonfire Night, but it’s important to be safe.
“Every year we attend countless incidents involving bonfires that have got out of control, or fireworks that have gone astray.
“In more serious cases, people have found themselves seriously hurt.
“Our main advice around this time of year, especially Bonfire Night, is to attend organised displays.
“These are safer and far more spectacular.
“However, if you are having a bonfire at home, or setting off fireworks, please follow our simple advice to keep yourself and others safe.”
Fire chiefs are also urging people to stick to lesser-known rules around how late you are able to set fireworks off.
According to the government website you are not permitted to set fireworks off between 11pm and 7am except for Bonfire Night – when the cut off is midnight.
Locals are also only allowed to buy fireworks, including sparklers, from registered sellers between October 15 and November 10, December 26 to 31 and three days before Diwali and the Chinese New year.
At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.
You can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally.
You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.
“Any bonfire should be sited well away from houses, trees, sheds, fences and other outbuildings,” the spokesperson added.
“Do not burn things like plastic or chemicals – these can produce thick and acrid smoke.
“Only buy fireworks from reputable suppliers and ensure they meet safety standards.
“Take care when lighting fireworks – keep at arms length away and don’t go back to them once lit.
“Never throw fireworks, don’t put them in your pocket and ensure they are not pointing towards people, buildings or trees.
“You can also help us and the police by reporting people who you know are starting fires (arson) in your area.
“To do this, you can call Firestoppers anonymously on 0800 169 5558 or by filling out a form online.”
