Lockdown Bonfire Night tips offered to South Tyneside households as council promotes 'play it safe' message

South Tyneside Council took the decision to cancel this year’s organised display at South Shields seafront to help keep people safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

Now, with more families likely to plan celebrations at home, the council is urging people to take great care, act responsibly and within the law, and be considerate of their neighbours.

Coun Joan Atkinson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, said: “With families likely to be staying home this year, we are urging people to think carefully about how they celebrate to ensure the safety of themselves and others.

“We are calling on people to think twice about buying fireworks for their own use and to consider safer alternative ways to celebrate. If they do decide to, they need to be aware of the serious safety risks and remain extremely cautious, particularly if using them for the first time.

“Residents are also urged to beware of the dangers of buying fireworks from sources, such as people’s homes, vehicles or on social media, and to choose a licensed and reputable retailer instead.

“It is also important to be mindful that Bonfire Night can be a fearful time, particularly for vulnerable people, animals and wildlife. Please be considerate of neighbours, let them know in advance and make sure animals and pets are safe and secure.”

The Council’s Trading Standards Team is visiting shops and reminding them of their responsibilities on sale and storage of fireworks.

Neighbourhood officers and street cleansing teams will also be keeping a look out for environmental issues, including abandoned waste and litter which could be used for illegal bonfires.

Anyone who has any concerns about the sale of fireworks or sees any antisocial behaviour or abandoned waste is asked to call the Council’s Customer Contact Centre (0191) 427 7000.

The council operates a bulky waste collection service for the safe dispose of up to eight bulky items. Book over the phone on (0191) 427 7000 for a £5 discount on collections up until Friday, November 6.

Safety advice and guidance is available from the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service website www.twfire.gov.uk/bonfire .

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