PREPARATIONS for Bonfire Night are now well underway, but it’s important that people remember how to stay safe this Bonfire Night and be considerate of those around them. 

Each year there are on average, 127 fires in homes and buildings in the UK which are started by fireworks, while the majority of firework-related injuries happen at family or private parties.

There is a lot of advice about how to stay safe and enjoy the festivities and Mid Devon District Council is encouraging those attending an event, or thinking of hosting their own at home, to follow these tips shared from ROSPA:

Firework code 

• Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm

• Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time

• Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary

• Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back

• Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks

• Never return to a firework once it has been lit

• Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them

• Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators

• Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire

• Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Animals can also be affected at this time of year with fireworks being known to cause stress for many pets. The RSPCA has a wealth of advice for pet owners which can be found at: rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/general/fireworks .