News and events

As Bonfire Night approaches, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) is reminding residents to enjoy the celebrations safely by choosing organised events and taking simple precautions at home through its annual Bright Sparx campaign.

Station Manager Dan Proctor said:

Our message is simple this Bonfire Night. Wherever possible, we encourage people to attend organised bonfires and firework displays rather than holding their own events at home. There are plenty of safe, professionally managed events taking place across Lancashire, helping to keep our communities safe while everyone enjoys the celebrations.

If you do choose to buy fireworks, make sure they are purchased from a reputable retailer and always follow the safety instructions carefully.

We also see an increase in waste being burned in gardens and on streets during this period. We would urge residents not to do this and instead dispose of waste responsibly. What may seem like a small fire can quickly get out of control, resulting in injury, damage to property and unnecessary risk to those nearby.

Our firefighters are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, responding to a wide range of emergencies and protecting communities across Lancashire. Every nuisance fire, hoax call and deliberate incident diverts resources away from people who may be in genuine need of our help.

Attacks on emergency service workers and deliberate fire-setting are criminal offences and will be treated as such. We work closely with Lancashire Police to identify those responsible and take appropriate action. We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night safely, responsibly and respectfully.

As part of the Bright Sparx campaign, LFRS is sharing the following safety advice:

Bonfire safety

• Build bonfires well away from houses, trees, sheds, fences and vehicles.

• Only burn dry, untreated wood and never use petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids to start or revive a fire.

• Keep a bucket of water, hosepipe or other means of extinguishing the fire close by.

• Never leave a bonfire unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving the site.

Firework safety

• Only buy fireworks from reputable retailers and look for CE or UKCA safety markings.

• Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Never return to a firework once it has been lit, even if it appears not to have worked.

• Keep children under close supervision and ensure pets are kept indoors where possible.

Respect your community

LFRS is also reminding residents that anti-social behaviour and attacks on emergency service workers are unacceptable and can have serious consequences. The Service works closely with Lancashire Police to identify those responsible and take appropriate action.

By celebrating safely, responsibly and respectfully, everyone can help make Bonfire Night an enjoyable occasion for their families, neighbours and local communities.

For more Bonfire Night safety advice, visit:
https://www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/safety/celebrations/bonfire-night-safety-tips