Last updated at 16:34, Tuesday, 30 October 2012

FIREFIGHTERS are urging the public to be sensible as they prepare to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Residents around Furness are being urged not to leave out anything which could become a potential arson site in a bid to keep fire crews free to attend major emergencies.

Barrow fire station watch manager, Mark Ducie, said people would often leave out old furniture and combustible material, thinking someone will pick them up to use in a bonfire.

But, he said: “Nowadays we only have certain sites around the town that are allowed to have bonfires, and we need people to understand that, in leaving stuff out and thinking it will get removed, it’s just creating potential arson sites.

“We’re just trying to take the temptation away.”

Mr Ducie said incidents on Halloween and Bonfire Night had reduced over recent years, because of the “pro-active” approach taken by the fire service.

Crews are visiting schools to talk about the dangers of firework injuries in a bid to reduce the number of children putting themselves in danger.

Officers are also keeping an eye out for bonfires being built around the town, and contacting Barrow Borough Council so they can be removed.

And for those who insist on holding celebrations on their own property, the fire service has a few safety tips.

Mr Ducie said: “We can’t stop people having their own bonfires, we just want them to be cautious of where they set them – unfortunately we’ve seen it happen in back gardens that they’re built too close to homes, or fences, or they set bushes or trees alight.

“People should put their bonfires together as late as possible, and do check to make sure no animals have crawled in.

“Keep children away, don’t build the bonfire too big, don’t stoke it and definitely, definitely don’t use any accelerants.

“Above all, just have a safe and sound one.”

First published at 16:15, Tuesday, 30 October 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk