Fire Chiefs urge people to stay safe this bonfire period

Photo: Sam Kutereba-Wall

A bonfire and firework display in Littleborough

Fire chiefs are calling for people to stay safe this bonfire period, and only use fireworks safely and responsibly.

The calls come following what could have been a very dangerous incident in Ashton-under-Lyne on Sunday (14 October).

On arrival, crews found smoke coming from an upstairs bedroom: firefighters quickly realised a firework had come in through the window and burnt the bed. They used a hose reel to make sure the fire was completely out, and that there was no danger of it spreading.

Group Manager for Stockport and Tameside, Phil Nelson, said: “This is an incident that could have been easily avoided if people weren’t being irresponsible and firing fireworks at each other. Fireworks are explosive devices, not toys, and should be treated as such.

“On this occasion no one was hurt, but, that doesn’t take away from how serious this could have been. A family was inside that house, with small children and they were needlessly put in harm’s way.

“Luckily the house had working smoke alarms so the occupants were quickly alerted to the fire, and were able to get out the house.

“We want everyone to enjoy this period of the year, but please, do it safely. We don’t want any injuries, or needless fires, and this sort of behaviour will quickly lead to them.”

For more safety information, please visit the safe4autumn website and if fireworks are a nuisance in your area phone crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.