Security, Investigation, Corporate Events and Executive Protection Specialists
+44 20 3178 6427
A2Z Security Group News
Safety first this bonfire night
- 05 November 2008
- SAFETY advice has been given out by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, the Dogs Trust and Cat Welfare Protection, for this November 5.
RoSPA's key piece of advice is to attend a public display, as approximately half of firework injuries occur at family and private parties.
Sheila Merrill, RoSPA Home Safety Manager for England, said: "In previous years, about 1,000 people have gone to hospital with a firework-related injury in the four weeks around Bonfire Night, with half of the victims being under the age of 18.
"Only adults should deal with fireworks, and we encourage them to familiarise themselves with the Firework Code to ensure their display is both enjoyable and safe."
People can familiarise themselves with the Firework Code, and lots of other useful safety information, on RoSPA's Safer Fireworks website – www.saferfireworks.com
Firework code
Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable
Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time
Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch
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
Sparkler advice
Never give sparklers to very young children
Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves
Hold sparklers at arm's length while they are being lit
Don't wave sparklers about close to other people
Never hold a baby while you are holding a sparkler
When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water
Dogs Trust
Don't leave the dog alone in the house – it may panic and injure itself.
Try to settle the dog before the fireworks start – if the dog is in familiar safe surroundings it will help it cope with the noise
Walk the dog before dark – make sure it is well exercised and has relieved itself before the fireworks begin.
Keep the dog busy – play games or enjoy reward-based training to keep its mind off the noises.
Be careful not to reward the dog for reacting to noise – if it's upset giving it attention may inadvertently reward it for being afraid. It may be better to act as if there's nothing to worry about.
Provide a safe hiding place – at noisy times around Bonfire Night, make sure the dog has somewhere safe to hide. Close the curtains and turn up the volume on the TV or radio to drown out the firework noises.
Seek advice from a vet. You can also ask about DAP – Dog Appeasing Pheromone, a scent that can comfort the dog. Be sure to give the medication prescribed before the noise begins.
Never force a dog outside when fireworks are being let off, and even if the dog enjoys Bonfire Night, never let it off the lead outdoors when fireworks are being let off.
For more information visit www.dogstrust.org.uk.
Cats Protection's Worthing and district branch
Keep your cat in after dark and provide him with a litter tray if he is used to having garden access.
Try to reduce outside noise by keeping windows shut and curtains drawn. Playing soothing music or having the TV on may also help.
In order to feel secure, cats need to be settled in cosy, familiar territory such as a comfy bed or favourite chair. Also consider providing your cat with a safe place to hide, such as an igloo bed.
Make sure all doors and windows are securely closed, to prevent your cat from escaping the home.
Pheromone plug-in diffusers, which are used to decrease anxiety and spraying, also have a beneficial effect in calming a cat during fireworks, but you must start using them a couple of weeks beforehand to maximise the benefit.
News Archive- November '08
- October '08
- September '08
- August '08
- July '08
- June '08
- May '08
- April '08
- March '08
- February '08
- January '08
- December '07
Login