5 November 2024
Bonfire Night 2024 – incident round up
East Sussex Fire and Rescue attended a small number of bonfire-related incidents between 7pm and midnight on 5 November 2024.
The following took place in Lewes.
- At 7.57pm, we were alerted to reports of torches alight on the ground at Winterbourne Hollow. Crews were told to stand down before arriving.
- At 8.09pm, we were alerted to reports of torches setting a telegraph pole alight. Crews used firefighting foam and a hose reel to put the fire out.
- At 8.41pm, crews spotted smoking coming from a lamp post and worked with other agencies to make the area safe. A road closure was put in place.
Other incidents:
- At 9.04pm, we were called to reports of a firework in a bin on Kings Road, Brighton. Crews arrived at the scene by the Peace Statue and used a hose reel jet to put the fire out. Two bins in a storage area were damaged.
We would like to thank everyone who has followed our safety advice.
For those who haven’t yet celebrated, please head to an organised local event, Further information can be found on our website:
https://www.esfrs.org/choose-local-events-this-bonfire-season
If you are hosting a fireworks party at home, ensure it is both fun and safe by following the Firework Code and observing sparkler and bonfire safety tips.
Firework code
Only adults should deal with setting up firework displays – this includes the lighting of fireworks and safe disposal once they have been used (and please remember, alcohol and fireworks do not mix!). Children and young people should always be supervised and watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance.
Follow these top 10 tips for a safer fireworks party:
- Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and check the time you can legally set off fireworks
- In England, Scotland and Wales only buy fireworks which carry the UKCA marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the UKNI symbol. You may also see the UKNI mark along with the UKCA symbol. Keep your fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
- Always read and follow the instructions on each firework, using a torch if needed.
- Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.
- Keep fireworks away from naked flames, including cigarettes.
- Never return to a lit firework.
- Don't put fireworks in your pockets, and never throw them.
- Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
- Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
- Before leaving, ensure the fire is completely out and the surroundings are made safe.