Stay safe in Wakefield this Bonfire Night

Firefighters in Wakefield are urging people to stay safe this bonfire season.

As November 5 approaches, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has teamed up with Wakefield Council and the local neighbourhood police teams to make sure everyone has a safe but enjoyable time.

The organisations are promoting the Gone in a Flash campaign, which aims to highlight the dangers of mishandling fireworks. The fire service has also releases a bonfire and firework safety video ahead of its busiest time of the year and is working with schools to warn children about the dangers associated with anti-social behaviour around the bonfire period

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Mussarat Suleman, Wakefield district prevention manager, said: “We want everyone to enjoy themselves on Bonfire Night, but fires and fireworks have obvious dangers, which is why we are urging people to take care and be vigilant. The majority of injuries happen at small parties, if possible we would encourage members of the public to attend large organised displays. You will see a fantastic show whilst supporting local businesses.”

Last year, the brigade was called out to 24 minor, outdoor incidents, from grass fires to wheelie bin blazes, between November 1 and 9.

Out of those were three bonfires that had got out of control and had to be extinguished. Firefighters were also called to 11 false alarms where controlled burning did not need to be extinguished.

The police and fire service will be taking part in a live webchat on November 3 between 7pm and 8pm. The focus will be on preventing burglary and bonfire safety and arson awareness.

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Superintendent David Lunn, from West Yorkshire Police Protective Services, said: “Bonfire Night is one of the busiest nights of the year for the police and our emergency service colleagues. Police officers and PCSOs will be carrying out additional patrols in neighbourhoods to provide extra reassurance, and to make sure that those committing anti-social behaviour offences are quickly dealt with.

“The force’s call handing staff will be on hand to deal with calls about anti-social behaviour involving the misuse of fireworks, and we also offer an online reporting service for incidents that do not require immediate attention.”

Visit www.westyorksfire.gov.uk for more advice on fire safety.