Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, Matthew Ellis is appealing for people to take extra care of themselves and their loved ones this Halloween and bonfire night.
While acknowledging people may still want to celebrate the events, even though they cannot do so in traditional ways because of the pandemic, Mr Ellis appealed for everyone to think carefully if they do mark them.
‘We are living through tough times with Covid, meaning our lives and what we do have changed.
‘With first Halloween and then the fireworks period upon us in a short space of time, it is crucial we all minimise the risk of catching the virus through close contact and accidents involving fireworks because of inexperience in their use.
‘Please, please follow the Covid rules at all times and remember that fireworks can cause horrific injury in inexperienced hands.’
The pandemic and government restrictions on social gatherings have put a halt to traditional trick or treating and organised firework displays.
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service are highlighting the dangers of fireworks, as restrictions mean more families may try to hold displays at home.
Between 2014 and 2019 there were more than 1,000 severe burn injuries involving fireworks in England and Wales, with 38 per cent of these in youngsters under the age of 15.
Dermot Hogan, Head of Central Prevent and Protect, said: ‘The pandemic means more families may try to hold displays at home, perhaps without the experience of having ever handled fireworks before.
‘We ask people to think twice about whether they need to have a display at home. If they choose to do so, we ask them to plan very carefully and ensure they buy suitable, legal fireworks with the printed CE safety mark from a licensed supplier or authorised retailer. They must also have sufficient space to hold a display and follow instructions and the firework code to make their celebration as safe as possible.’
Staffordshire Police is asking people to apply common sense and avoid anything that goes against government restrictions and health advice in their area.
Tom Chisholm, Head of Neighbourhood, said there would be a ‘visible presence’ in local communities throughout Halloween and Bonfire Night. Anyone who plans an unauthorised events could face a fine of £10,000.
For more information on firework safety click here.