Safety tips for Bonfire Night issued by council

Horsham District Council receives more than 100 complaints each year from neighbours over a nuisance from inconsiderate and dangerous use of bonfires and fireworks - and some of these relate to Bonfire Night.

The council also receives many complaints about domestic bonfires when they cause a nuisance and the burning of commercial waste, which is an offence.

Whilst no one is trying to dampen the celebrations, some simple tips are being given by the Council about Bonfire Night and bonfires throughout the year:

PLEASE DO:

- Tell neighbours about your proposed bonfire

- Make sure all materials will burn quickly and are dry to limit smoke

- Keep the bonfire small to restrict burning time

- Check weather conditions to ensure the smoke does not blow directly into neighbouring properties

- Check for small animals before lighting

- Other than the Bonfire Night celebrations, avoid burning at weekends and bank holidays when people may be in their gardens

PLEASE DON’T:

- Burn household waste, nappies, tyres, plastics, foam or paint

- Use petrol, engine oil or methylated spirits to ignite the fire

- Leave a bonfire unattended

- Light a fire when air quality is poor (more on this from Sussex Air).

As Tuesday 5 November approaches, people are also being reminded to be considerate with fireworks.

Regulations about the use of fireworks mean that there is a curfew prohibiting fireworks being used between 11pm and 7am. This is extended to midnight on the evening of 5 November itself. These regulations are enforced by the police.

Further information about pollution issues in general is available by calling 01403 215609.