Remember, remember safety this fifth of November

Guy Fawkes night is here and so are the potentially dangerous situations surrounding the festivities.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging people to take extra care as the number of fires reportedly started by fireworks has increased over the past few days.

Acting National Manager Community Readiness and Recovery Tom Ronaldson told RNZ’s Morning Report that six new fires had started overnight, taking the total to 13, “all of which are completely avoidable”.

November 5 commemorates Guy Fawkes Night, the failed Gunpowder plot, to assassinate King James I and the London Parliament in 1605

But with events centred largely on dangerous explosives, Fire and Emergency New Zealand recommends users follow safety guidelines.

While weather conditions show the likelihood of rain in many parts of the country, Ronaldson said, “low risk doesn’t mean no risk.”

The FENZ website advises that clear space and calm conditions should be the priority for people planning to set off fireworks this Guy Fawkes.

Ronaldson says, “Several large fires in recent weeks have already shown how easily fires can start and spread in windy conditions.”

Over the past decade an average 160 firework related fires have been recorded each year, Ronaldson says, “if you choose to light fireworks it’s your responsibility to light them safely and make sure they don’t cause a fire.”

NZ Fire and Emergency recommend these simple precautions to keep everyone safe this Guy Fawkes;

• Before setting fireworks, go to checkitsalright.nz to check the weather conditions and the fire restrictions for your area.
• Many public areas have year-round fireworks bans in place. Check with your local council before setting off fireworks at beaches or parks.
• Don’t set fireworks off when it’s windy.
• Have a large bucket of water or hose at hand.
• Ensure your fireworks are pointed at the sky and won’t end up in anything that can catch fire including buildings or vegetation.
• Be a good neighbour. Let people know around you if you’re planning to set fireworks off, especially those with pets and livestock.
• Dispose of your used fireworks safely – soak them in water before you throw them out. 

Despite not being the mastermind behind the plot, Guy Fawkes was caught guarding the gunpowder and sentenced, leading him to become a popular symbol surrounding the holiday after Parliament declared it a day of ‘public thanksgiving’.

Since then, the annual event has evolved with festivities including bonfires, sparklers, burning ‘Guys’, and the star of the show, fireworks in honour of the gunpowder barrels not being lit.