With larger firework displays cancelled this year due to Covid 19 Havering Council is advising residents to keep safe and considerate if they plan to host their own bonfire and fireworks night at home
Current Covid 19 guidelines in the borough mean that households can only meet in groups of up to six outdoors, with social distancing.
Residents considering a firework party must not exceed this, or they may face a fine.
Fireworks can also cause significant distress to vulnerable people, as well as animals. Havering Council is encouraging residents to take this into consideration and purchase quieter fireworks if they wish use them and to ensure neighbours are made aware before letting them off.
Dogs and cats should be kept inside and have a hiding place.
If you are considering having a bonfire or fireworks at home, please also remember to:
- only purchase fireworks which carry the CE safety mark and are from registered sellers.
- only have bonfires if they are clear of buildings, sheds, fences and hedges.
- store fireworks safely, in their original packaging, dry and away from sources of heat and ignition, and lock them away from children and animals.
- always follow the instructions on fireworks for safe usage and disposal.
Councillor Viddy Persaud, Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Safety, said:
“We are asking residents to be safe and considerate this bonfire night. Fireworks can be dangerous at the best of times, causing serious injuries and strain on emergency services, but we must also be vigilant to the additional threat of coronavirus and stick to the rules.
Please be considerate to your pets, neighbours, community and our frontline services this bonfire night. At a time where emergency workers are already facing high demand, we’re asking all residents not to put themselves at risk of adding to that.”