2 November 2011

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

MID Sussex District Council is encouraging residents to visit organised fireworks displays this year because they are the safest way to celebrate the 5 November.

At organised displays, fireworks are handled by trained professionals and are kept at a safe distance from the crowd. They also help to minimise disruption for local residents because everybody is gathered in the same place, often away from built-up areas, instead of annoying their neighbours next door.

For some young children, older people and vulnerable members of the community, Bonfire Night can be an anxious time. The loud noises and explosions associated with back garden fireworks are closer to neighbouring properties and this can be unsettling, especially for those with pets, so Mid Sussex District Council is encouraging residents to attend an organised display instead and be considerate to others.

With 5 November coming up, bonfire and firework displays will soon be taking place all over the District. Organised firework displays are planned for Cuckfield and Lindfield on Saturday 5 November, as well as many other locations in and around Mid Sussex over the next few weeks.

In these tough economic times, organised displays also offer the best facilities and value for money. Organised displays are often free to attend or require just a small entrance fee, so they can work out far cheaper than buying fireworks for a personal display. Organised displays also produce a spectacular and often carefully choreographed show that would be impossible to create at home without significant financial outlay.

Mid Sussex District Council understands many residents will still want to set off their own fireworks and strongly recommends the advice on the safe handling of fireworks which has been given by the West Sussex Fire and Rescue service.

When using fireworks at home, residents are reminded to use the Fireworks Safety Code:

• Keep fireworks in a closed box and only take them out one at a time
• Follow the instructions on each firework and read them by torchlight – NEVER a naked flame
• Light at arm’s length, using a taper and stand well back
• Always supervise children around fireworks and never give sparklers to children under five
• Keep a bucket of water handy
• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off it can still explode
• Used fireworks should be collected after the display with care. Douse with water, bury or place in a metal container
• Keep pets indoors

Sussex Police are also reminding local shops that it is an offence to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of 18 and that it is illegal for any person to throw, cast or fire any firework into any highway, street, thoroughfare or public place.

“The safest way to enjoy Bonfire Night is always to attend one of the big organised events,” said Councillor Christopher Snowling, Cabinet Member for Health and Community. “The shows can be spectacular and all the fireworks are handled by trained professionals.

“For those who choose to let off their own fireworks at home, it is important to remember that all fireworks are potentially very dangerous, if not handled properly. I hope that, by following the simple safety tips provided by West Sussex Fire and Rescue service, everybody will have a safe and enjoyable time this 5 November.”