Bonfire night can be an exciting time of the year, but please remember to celebrate safely.
It is important that we always follow safety advice around this time of year, but it is also increasingly important that we think about our environment as well.
The environmental impact associated with bonfire night celebrations is significant. Fireworks and bonfires give off large amounts of pollution, and levels of pollution after bonfire night are often four times greater than typical levels.
It’s important that those who do wish to celebrate bonfire night can do so safely and in a way that minimises the impact on the environment and others.
Poor air quality can last for days and we know that high pollution levels can cause respiratory irritation and shortness of breath, or even trigger asthma attacks.
Instead of having their own bonfires or firework displays, residents are urged to consider attending an organised event to help reduce the risks to health, while taking care of their own safety as well as the safety of others.
Some event organisers are looking to cancel events this year, but by attending appropriately run events with suitable plans in place can help to reduce overall emissions, whilst ensuring that people can enjoy the occasion safely.
Retailers stocking fireworks must be registered with the council, and each registered business has been visited by council officers to ensure that the fireworks comply with current safety standards and are stored safely.
People could put themselves, their families, and the community at risk if they do not buy fireworks from reputable businesses. Please remember that it’s important that there is also a suitable place to store fireworks.
The Community Safety Team at the council is also working with community safety partners, including Cheshire Police and Fire services, to help address a small amount of anti-social behaviour in pockets of the borough, which have occurred in previous years.
Cllr Hitesh Patel, cabinet member for housing, environment and public protection said: “If you are looking to celebrate bonfire night please do so safely by following the Firework Code.
“As part of our everyday lives, its also increasingly important that we are considerate of others and consider ways to protect our environment.”
Any suspicious firework sales or the sale of fireworks to anyone under 18 can be reported to Trading Standards via the Consumer Advice Citizen Service on 0808 223 1133.
For more information about protecting yourself and others this bonfire night, visit warrington.gov.uk/bonfire-night-safety.
