Croydon Fire Station to stage special Bonfire Night event on November 8 adapted for those with SEND
Misfire: the LFB had to handle more call-outs last year, as home firework displays went dangerously wrong
London Fire Brigade is urging the public to attend organised fireworks displays instead of hosting their own, following a six-year high in emergency calls during last year’s fireworks season.
In 2023, more than 2,000 emergency calls were made on Diwali, Halloween and Fireworks Night – a 13% increase on the previous year. Bonfire Night was the busiest for the Brigade since 2016. Diwali also recorded the highest number of 999 calls in 14 years.
Last year’s spike in calls and several significant fires caused by stray fireworks has prompted a renewed appeal to the public not to hold fireworks displays at home.
And in an effort to demonstrate what is safer and possible this firework season, Croydon Fire Station is holding an adapted open evening on Friday November 8 aimed at making Bonfire Night accessible for young people with additional needs. There will be themed light displays and quiet sensory rooms instead of noisy fireworks, and visitors will be able to access a fire engine via a bespoke ramp.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Joanne Smith, said: “The period around Diwali, Halloween and Bonfire Night is always busy for us, but last year’s surge was unprecedented.
“Help us use our resources wisely by attending a safer, organised fireworks display this year and think twice before building bonfires in your garden. However, if things go wrong and you do need our help, don’t hesitate to call. If you’re unsure if it’s an emergency, it’s better to be safe than sorry. We can provide you with the best advice and send crews out if needed.”
The LFB says that organised displays are safer, more impressive and will actually cost far less than holding private displays at home. A 10-minute display in a garden could cost between £290 to £850 for fireworks, the correct safety equipment and storage. If a stray firework damages properties, it could cost thousands of pounds to repair the damage or settle a civil claim.
On-the-spot fines of up to £5,000 can also be issued if you break the law.
Craig Carter, the LFB’s Assistant Commissioner for prevention and protection, said: “Our advice has always been that it’s safer to attend professional displays rather than using fireworks at home. It’s also cheaper and usually easy to get to.
“If you do choose to host your own display, it’s important to ensure you are buying safe fireworks. Only buy fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller and make sure they have a CE safety mark. Secure them properly in the ground, and keep them far away from buildings, trees, animals and people.
“Always follow the Fireworks Code and remember there are strict laws around when you can purchase and use fireworks. Never set them off if you’ve been drinking alcohol and once a firework is lit, never go back it.”
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