SAFETY first is the message to revellers in Sedgemoor from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service this Bonfire Night.

The service has issued a firework safety checklist: · Buy fireworks from a reputable seller. Make sure they are British Standard marked (BS7114).

· Store fireworks in a closed, locked metal box and take them out one at a time when it’s time to use them.

· Make sure supports for rockets and Catherine wheels are stable.

· Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on each firework and read them by torchlight – NEVER a naked flame.

On the night: · Choose one person to be responsible for lighting the fireworks.

· Don’t drink alcohol if you are responsible for lighting fireworks.

· Wear gloves and eye protection.

· Keep children under control.

· Keep pets indoors.

· Keep a bucket of water handy.

· Light fireworks at arm’s length using a safety firework lighter or taper.

· Stand well back after lighting.

· NEVER go back to firework once it’s been lit – it may go off in your face.

· Used fireworks should be collected after the display with care and well after the event has finished.

· Douse used fireworks with water, bury or place in a metal container.

Sparklers Children love sparklers but always: · Supervise children with sparklers and never give them to a child under five.

· Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.

· Put used sparklers hot end down into a bucket of sand and water.

Bonfires · Site well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs and ALWAYS FROM FIREWORKS.

· Keep buckets of water and a garden hose nearby in case of an emergency but dial 999 if the fire is getting out of control.

· Before lighting the fire check that there are no children or pets hiding inside it.

· Build the stack so that it is stable and won’t collapse outwards or to one side.

· NEVER use flammable liquids - paraffin or petrol - to light the fire.

· Don’t burn foam filled furniture, bottles, aerosols or tins of paint.

· Children MUST be supervised at all times and all onlookers kept well back.

· Pour water on the embers before leaving.