North Yorkshire Police issue Bonfire Night safety advice
North Yorkshire Police have issued a stay safe warning ahead of Bonfire Night celebrations as they remind people to ‘stay safe and keep a sensible head on’.
PCSO David Mort, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Remember, remember the 5th of November and remember to keep yourself safe.
“Growing up I always used to love Bonfire night.
"Meeting up with friends eating toffee apples around the local bonfire while watching the fireworks at the local display.
“It’s a good opportunity just to remind everyone to enjoy the celebrations responsibly and look out for one another.
“We don't want the evening going off with a bang for all of the wrong reasons.”
Bonfires
Keep them a safe distance from buildings, fences, sheds and anything else you would rather not see go up in smoke.
Ensure you have water at hand in case the fire should need extinguishing.
Always control the burning as much as possible dont make the fire bigger than you can maintain.
Never leave a fire unattended.
Fireworks
Only buy fireworks from licenced sellers, follow the instructions and never let children handle them.
Ensure you have a safety zone in place while lighting.
If you are under the influence of alcohol, put down the matches and let someone else put themselves in that responsible position.
Pets
Spare a thought for our four legged friends.
Fireworks can be frightening – keep pets indoors and somewhere they feel safe.
Anti-Social behaviour
Dont let a bit of November excitement turn into a police matter – throwing fireworks, lighting fires in a public space or causing damage to property isn’t clever and could land you in hot bother.
Alcohol
Enjoy yourself but know your limits.
Nobody wants to become the main attraction in the back of a Police van.
Suspicious fires
If you spot an unsafe or unattended fire, contact the fire service.
If there is an immediate danger call 999.
PCSO Mort added: “Most importantly, look out for one another and respect your neighbours and help keep Whitby and surrounding rural wards a safe place for everyone.
“Let’s make sure that the only thing that goes up in smoke is the fireworks.
“Stay safe, keep a sensible head on and enjoy the celebrations.”