Scarborough Residents Urged To Prioritise Safety Ahead Of Bonfire Night

Safety experts are hosting a drop-in event in Scarborough to help residents reduce firework injuries and antisocial behaviour this Bonfire Night.

Firework-related injuries and community distress will be the focus of a new safety drive hitting Scarborough.

Residents will have the opportunity to speak directly to professionals about firework safety, legal requirements, and the importance of buying from reputable retailers at a dedicated drop-in event.

Officers from trading standards and community safety teams will join colleagues from North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service outside the Poundland store in Westborough on Thursday, October 22, from 11am to 1pm.

The local initiative supports the national ‘My safety: fireworks’ campaign, which asks people to consider how fireworks affect neighbours, animals, and local communities.

National figures highlight the severe risks associated with backyard displays. Around 2,000 people in England attend hospital each year with firework-related injuries during the Bonfire Night season, while more than 100 require hospital admission. Medical professionals report that injuries to the hands, eyes, and face are among the most common.

Alongside the physical dangers, fireworks can cause significant property damage and widespread distress to both people and animals when used irresponsibly.

North Yorkshire Council's executive member for corporate services, Councillor Heather Phillips, whose responsibilities include community safety, said:

"We want residents to have fun, but we also want Bonfire Night to pass without avoidable injuries, fires or antisocial behaviour.

That's why we're encouraging people to follow the advice available and make safety their priority.

We are also asking people to be considerate. Thinking about the impact fireworks may have on neighbours, older people, young children, pets and livestock helps ensure everyone can enjoy themselves."

The upcoming Scarborough event aims to help people understand how to reduce these risks and purchase fireworks legally.

Councillor Richard Foster, the executive member for managing our environment, oversees trading standards. He said:

"This event gives residents the opportunity to speak directly to professionals about buying fireworks safely and legally and understanding what to look for when purchasing products.

Choosing fireworks from reputable retailers helps to ensure products meet the required safety standards and reduces the risks associated with unsafe or non-compliant items.

Whether you're attending an organised display or celebrating at home, having the right information can help people make informed decisions and enjoy Bonfire Night responsibly."

Emergency services are also urging the public to think carefully before hosting private celebrations, as many injuries occur in domestic gardens.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s lead community safety officer, Colin Sutherland, said:

"We would always encourage people to attend organised firework displays where possible. If you are planning your own display, make sure you follow the Firework Code, buy fireworks from reputable retailers, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time.

Fireworks can cause serious injuries if they are misused, and they can also lead to fires and distress within local communities.

We all have a part to play in keeping our communities safe. Please look out for your friends, neighbours, pets and vulnerable people so that everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely and responsibly."

Local law enforcement officers are reminding residents that irresponsible use of fireworks is not just dangerous, but can also be a policing matter.

North Yorkshire Police's Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector, Craig Regan, said:

"Used irresponsibly, fireworks can cause damage to property and cause significant harm to people and animals.

As well as the risk of injury from fireworks exploding, they can also present a serious fire hazard. We're pleased to be supporting this event, which helps put firework safety firmly in the spotlight and encourages people to enjoy fireworks responsibly while keeping themselves, their families and their communities safe.

If you're experiencing ongoing issues with people setting off fireworks irresponsibly, please report antisocial behaviour to us."

Residents seeking further advice on firework safety and how to prevent antisocial behaviour are encouraged to visit the North Yorkshire Police website.