As bonfire night approaches we can anticipate the usual crop of burned and injured youngsters. Things get a bit out of hand when during play and any thoughts of safety are at the back of the mind rather than at the front of it.
When I was a fireman – a long time ago now – I can recall a group of Salford lads and lasses getting quite agitated about us putting out their “bommie”. The fact that the fire was on the road and the fuel tank of a nearby truck was glowing brightly in the light of the burning timbers didn’t seem to cause anyone the slightest concern. I’ve also seen a bonfire set up under the power lines – the smoke can conduct the current and who knows what the consequences of that might be! So keep clear of power lines, got that?
Let’s keep Bury free of injuries on Bonfire Night. Here’s a few tips from the Fire Service:
• Bonfires need a lot of organising and can be a hazard. Many displays are a great success without one. If, after careful consideration, you do decide to have a bonfire, make one person responsible for it, from early planning to final clearing up. Don’t site it too near your display or firework storage area.
• Never use flammable liquids like paraffin or petrol to get it going as this can result in uncontrolled spread of fire or explosion.
• Check immediately before lighting that there’s no animal or even a young child hidden inside.
• Never put fireworks on a bonfire, even if they’re dud.
• Don’t burn dangerous rubbish (e.g. aerosols, paint tins or foam-filled furniture).
• Remove any rubbish from your bonfire area in advance so there’s nothing that can be thrown onto the fire on the night.
There’s lot more advice about organized bonfires. Let’s just say that someone has to take charge of the bonfire to make sure spectators keep clear and don’t do anything stupid like running around near the fire. Have a great evening, enjoy it and don’t end your night in the Casualty Department!
Bill Armstrong
Fire Risk Assessor, Fire Safety Trainer.
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