Busy weekend for ambulance crews

Ambulance crews in the region had a busy weekend responding to emergencies despite pleas from North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust (NWAS) for people to stay safe and keep themselves and others free from harm.

Incidents attended by ambulance crews across Greater Manchester include a one-year-old girl who was hit by a firework that fell over in Bolton, a 17-year-old boy who suffered burns to the face from a bonfire which blew up in Bury and a 14-year-old girl who was injured when a firework exploded on the side of her leg in Little Houlton.

The service also transferred a five-year-old boy from the Rochdale Infirmary to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital with burns to hand and face.

A spokesperson for NWAS said: “The weekend of Bonfire Night always brings with it a high number emergency calls relating to burns, some down to the misuse of fireworks and others purely down to accidents.

“It is easy to forget how dangerous fireworks, bonfires and even sparklers can be. Sparklers get five times hotter than cooking oil and a rocket can reach speeds of 150mph. Even with the most careful planning, things can go wrong.

“We are urging anyone thinking of using fireworks for future celebrations, such as Eid and New Year’s Eve, to remember how dangerous they can be. Keep a watchful eye on children and keep them out of harm’s way. If handling or lighting fireworks yourself remember to follow all safety rules.

“Fireworks used properly are safe and accidents are avoidable. However, they can cause devastating injuries or even death if safety precautions are not followed.”