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People are being advised to follow Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standard’s top tips to stay safe this Halloween and Bonfire Night.

They have provided a list of simple steps to stay safe due to the potential dangers during this period.

On Bonfire Night, residents are advised to attend an organised display instead of having fireworks at their own home. Organised displays are being held across the country and a full list can be found on the Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service website.

Other safety tips for Bonfire Night include:

  • Only allow adults to handle fireworks
  • Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
  • Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
  • Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
  • Never return to a firework once it has been lit

Advice on safety around Halloween includes:

  • Costumes should have a UKCA or CE mark, which shows that it complies with safety standards.  When shopping online, it’s advisable to buy from legitimate UK sources to make sure that the products comply with UK safety standards
  • Battery operated lights are much safer than candles to use in homemade lanterns and pumpkins
  • Be aware of the risk to clothing, costumes and curtains when celebration candles are in use. Do not move a candle when it is lit
  • In the garden, keep children and pets away from garden candles and lanterns.
  • Remember to ensure all candles are not left unattended in any room and are out before leaving the house or extinguished before bedtime

Further advice can be found on the Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service website.

Mark Preece, Chief Fire Officer at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “I would encourage residents across the county to attend one of the many organised bonfire and firework displays across the council as these are safer. However, if you are using fireworks at your own home, please make sure to follow the safety advice provided at all times.

“Fireworks can cause serious or life-changing injuries so please treat them with extreme caution.”

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member with responsibility for the Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The advice from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standards is here to keep people safe and it is vital that the advice is followed.

“We want everyone in Gloucestershire to have an enjoyable Bonfire Night but fireworks can be dangerous, so it is important to follow the guidance to prevent family or friends from any injuries.”