What to remember, remember on the 5th of November

Cheshire West and Chester Council has again joined forces with Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to help keep Bonfire Night safe for everyone.

The Council is working with its partners to remove unauthorised bonfires across the borough.  It is unsafe and illegal to build and light bonfires in open spaces. An unauthorised bonfire is one that is not an official organised event or on your own property.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Councillor Stuart Bingham said: 

“Everyone loves Bonfire Night, but, every year, hundreds of people get hurt at unofficial celebrations.  Our StreetCare team finds all kinds of dangerous items dumped onto unauthorised bonfires, everything from gas canisters to microwave ovens and even toxic foam on sofas and mattresses - these materials pose a serious health risk when burned.  Fire can also spread to properties if bonfires are lit close to people’s homes.

“By working together, and with the help of local people, we can make sure everyone enjoys a safe and happy Bonfire Night."

Steve McCormick, Head of Prevention and Protection at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“We want our communities to enjoy celebrating the bonfire period safely, which is why we always encourage people to attend organised firework displays and bonfires where precautions have been taken to protect spectators.

While we take a tolerant approach to displays held at home, our priority is to reduce the risk of any harm. We work closely with partner agencies to prevent nuisance bonfires that could pose a danger to people or property.

“We aim to enable people to enjoy their celebrations in a way that is safe for everyone.”

Cheshire Police will be carrying out additional patrols in the run up to Bonfire Night.

Superintendent Mike Ankers, Cheshire Constabulary’s Commander for the West said:

“By working closely with partners such as the Council and Fire and Rescue Service we can ensure a long-standing tradition continues to be celebrated without any issues.”

Stay safe and have fun by attending one of the official bonfire events in your area. 

Information can be found at: 

Bonfires & Fireworks | Visit Chester & Cheshire

You can report unauthorised bonfires and fly tipping to the Council’s StreetCare team online: 

https://my.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/service/Report_a_fault_with_fly_tipping

Pictured - Dumped items by an unauthorised bonfire last year.