As 2019 approaches, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) has provided some tips to help residents enjoy their celebrations safely.
Chelsea Bridges, Prevention Project Manager said: “New Year celebrations are an important time of the year for many of our residents, who may be going out or welcoming friends and family to their homes.”
“Whilst we don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun, we want to remind residents to take care, especially when using fireworks, bonfires, lanterns or candles, which carry a particular risk.”
Fireworks
- Only buy fireworks with a CE mark.
- Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.
- Keep fireworks in a suitable box.
- Never go near a firework that has been lit – even if it has gone off, it could still explode
- Always supervise children around fireworks and never give sparklers to a child under five.
Bonfires
- Build bonfires well away from buildings, fences, trees and garden structures.
- Never burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint – many produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode causing injury.
- Don’t use petrol or paraffin to get the fire going as it could quickly get out of control.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies.
- Never leave a bonfire unattended and keep children and pets away from it.
Lanterns and candles
- Think carefully about the fire risks if making homemade lanterns. Place them securely in a purpose-built candle holder away from draughts. Flickering LED candles are safer than real candles.
- Never allow small children to carry lanterns lit by naked flames. The handle could become hot or the child could slip.
- Lanterns should never be made from plastic bottles or other plastic containers.
- Floating lanterns are a fire hazard but also pose a risk to livestock, agriculture, camping activities, thatched properties and hazardous material sites.
- Ensure that the candles are extinguished completely at night or before you go out.
For more information about celebrating safely, please visit our website: www.rbfrs.co.uk/your-safety/celebrating-safely/