Safety priority at firworks parties

Nov 3 2008 by Alison Dayani, Birmingham Mail

AMBULANCE chiefs have urged bonfire night revellers to play it safe and not allow the festivities to leave a burning impression.

Every year, West Midlands paramedics are alerted to hundreds of children and adults left with horrific injuries from firework and bonfire events.

The ambulance service is hoping to reduce that figure by warning families to opt for organised firework displays and be safe if they hold their own Guy Fawkes night parties.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Millions of families across the West Midlands love watching fireworks, but no-one wants to be a victim of the accidents that can, and sadly do, happen.

“Our crews have seen people who will be scarred for life as a result accidents involving bonfires and fireworks.  The injuries can be horrific and very often leave damage to the face and hands which you will never fully recover from.

“No-one wants to be a spoilsport – fireworks are wonderful things but you need to be mindful of the risks. 

“Children and teenagers make up a disproportionate number of casualties from bonfires and fireworks.”

Paramedics are warning locals not to drink alcohol if setting off fireworks and to light them at arms length before standing well back.

Other advice is to never return to a firework once it has been lit until it goes off, never put a firework in your pocket or throw it.

Sparklers can be just as dangerous and parents are warned to never give one to a child under five and always wear gloves when holding one.