Bonfire safety
There is no such thing as a completely safe bonfire. Bonfires can pose a very real risk to public safety and property.
Safety measures
If you feel that it is absolutely necessary to have a bonfire you should follow the safety guidelines.
Talk to any neighbours before having a bonfire and be careful what materials are used in the bonfire e.g.
- damp material can cause excess smoke,
- tyres, plastics, paints and materials containing foam can produce large amounts of smoke & toxic fumes,
- aerosols, cylinders and canisters may explode causing injury
- don’t throw any fireworks into the fire
- build any bonfire away from property, sheds, fences, trees, communications masts and main roads etc.,
- check there are no cables, electricity or telephone wires, above or close to the bonfire,
- do not use petrol, paraffin or accelerants to start or encourage the fire as it may cause injury or a loss or control of the fire
- make sure the bonfire is always supervised – do not leave the bonfire unattended at any time
- keep children and pets away from the bonfire
- if a bonfire gets out of control, call 999 and ask for the Fire & Rescue Service
Once the bonfire has died down, spray the embers with water to stop it reigniting.
Getting rid of your garden waste without a bonfire.
You can get rid of your garden waste without making a bonfire. Most garden waste, like grass cuttings and leaves, can be recycled by composting.