East Midlands Ambulance Service is joining forces with partners and local organisations to help keep people safe this bonfire and fireworks season.
With many organised events cancelled, emergency services are preparing for a busier night than usual as people celebrate in their own gardens. We are asking everyone to show respect this Bonfire Night.
Fire services across the region are warning that whilst most people enjoy fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause real misery and to remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.
The Firework Code is in place to keep you safe, so ensure you plan your firework display to make it safe but enjoyable whilst following the local restrictions, and ensure it finishes before 11pm.
We are currently amidst a global pandemic and we are asking people not to take risks, putting additional pressures on our emergency services.
Adam Mitchell, Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) Paramedic from East Midlands Ambulance Service said: “Injuries can be prevented by following the Firework code but if you do suffer a burn, ensure you cool the burn under cool running water, preferable a shower, for at least 30 minutes.
“If you have any problems with the amount of pain you are experiencing, or you are struggling to breathe as a result of the injury, please call 999. If it is a child or baby that has been burned, then always seek medical advice. When 999 is not appropriate, advice can be sought by phoning 111, attending an urgent care centre or visiting your local accident and emergency department.”
You must be over 18 to purchase fireworks and must only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time following given instructions.
Fireworks can frighten people and animals so please respect your neighbours. The elderly and children are frequently scared and intimidated by firework noise. After all, fireworks are explosives. Tell your neighbours if you’re a planning on letting off fireworks and avoid purchasing noisy ones. Please be considerate when having a firework party and make sure the noise is over by 11pm.
You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:
- Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
- New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am