Emergency services have urged people to stay safe this fireworks season.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to follow the firework code this autumn to avoid injuries.

According to the Children’s Burns Trust, 500 people will be injured in firework incidents this year, with most injuries affecting the eyes, head or hands.

 “With cost-of-living pressures leading to the cancellation of some public firework displays, there is a risk that people may choose to celebrate in their own gardens,” said Nicki Peddle, head of prevention at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

Ms Peddle added: “Though Bonfire Night can be fun for all the family, there are a huge number of hazards associated with the use of fireworks and in the wrong hands they can cause serious injury or damage to property.”

South East Coast Ambulance (Secamb) is also urging people to act sensibly and follow safety advice to keep themselves and others safe this bonfire and fireworks season.

They recommend people attend professional events, but if people wish to do their own displays they should follow safety instructions “to the letter”.

“Of course, we understand that many people will be out celebrating in the coming days but we also know that we will be called to treat people who have been injured by fireworks and bonfires in incidents which could have been avoided,” said Dave Williams, Secamb’s head of resilience and specialist operations.

“Our staff will be there for those who need us, but people can help us and limit the pressure on our services and the wider NHS, by taking extra care and paying attention around fireworks and bonfires.”

Ms Peddle said: “Please follow the firework code to keep yourself, your loved ones and the emergency services safe.”

The firework code:

  • Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm (with the exception of Bonfire Night and Diwali when this is extended to midnight)
  • Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time
  • Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
  • Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
  • Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
  • Never return to a firework once it has been lit
  • Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
  • Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
  • Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
  • Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving

If you do suffer a burn, ensure you:

  • Cool the burn under cold running water for at least ten minutes
  • After the burn has been cooled, cover it with cling film or a clean plastic bag
  • Call 999 if necessary. Always seek medical advice for a baby or child that has been burned