Bonfire advice

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service have been called out to several calls recently where bonfires have got out of control.

The following advice should be taken when lighting, using and extinguishing a bonfire.

• Before you light the bonfire, check that children and animals are not hiding inside and are a safe distance away.
• Don't leave bonfires unattended. An adult should have the time to supervise it until all material is consumed.
• If the bonfire has to be left it should be dampened down with water.
• Don't light bonfires in unsuitable weather conditions, particularly wind.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe handy just in case.
• Build bonfires well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences, hedges and traffic.
• Never use flammable liquids to start the fire, and never burn dangerous rubbish such as aerosols, paint, foam furniture, rubber tyres, batteries, etc.
• Check with your local authority before lighting a bonfire as you may be in a smoke control area.