FIREFIGHTERS are urging people to think twice before they light a bonfire or have a firework displaying their garden this year.

Due to Covid-19 and the current restrictions, and the fact that all professionally organised bonfires or firework shows are cancelled, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is concerned that the spike it saw in garden fires at the start of lockdown may repeat itself around Bonfire Night.

Since the start of lockdown in March to the end of September, the fire service saw a 93 per cent increase in 999 calls for fires in gardens, with 64 per cent being due to fires becoming out of control, being left unattended or spreading to nearby fences or sheds.

That is why the service has renewed its warning that starting any fire can be extremely dangerous and may lead to disastrous consequences, and firefighters are encouraging people to consider safer options instead.

Deliberate fire reduction manager Andy Gray said: “Our top priority during this period is to ensure public safety, and I would ask people not to be tempted to celebrate this Bonfire Night with a fire and fireworks display in their own garden.

“Our message is clear – please do not be tempted to do so as it brings with it a huge amount of risk.

Warrington Guardian:

Fires can easily spread to nearby fences or sheds

“Any fire can quickly get out of hand and spread to fences, sheds and properties.

“It can also cause harm and endanger life, and I would therefore urge people to stay safe by thinking of other ways of celebrating the event instead.”

Suggestions for an alternative safer Bonfire Night include planning a themed meal, baking bonfire-themed treats or a having a special movie or games night with the people in your household.

Firefighters will be working closely with police and local authorities in the run up to Bonfire Night to help keep the number of incidents as low as possible.

If you spot a build-up of rubbish which you believe is intended to be used as a bonfire, report it to the council immediately by calling 443322.

Wheelie bins are also a real hazard if left outside properties and could be involved in a deliberately set fire.

Residents should only put their bins out on collection day and keep them stored securely at all other times.

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Warrington Borough Council is also urging residents not light bonfires in their back gardens or hold firework displays to prevent strain being placed on already stretched emergency services.

Cllr Judith Guthrie, cabinet member for environment and public protection said: “Coronavirus restrictions have disrupted many seasonal events that we come to look forward to at this time of year, but we must put the health and safety of ourselves, our families, and others first.

“Public firework displays have been cancelled in the interest of public safety, and although fireworks can be bought for private use, we are asking that residents follow the advice of Cheshire Fire and Rescue and do not have bonfires or firework displays at home.

“We are asking this to avoid putting any further or unnecessary strain on our emergency services and NHS, particularly at this challenging time.”

For more information about bonfire and firework safety please visit cheshirefire.gov.uk