FIREFIGHTERS have reminded football fans of the dangers that fireworks pose ahead of the Euro 2020 final tomorrow.
It is just one day to go until the final of the Euro 2020 championship, and England's first appearance in a men's major tournament final since 1966.
However Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service expect fans to set off fireworks, no matter what the outcome of the final maybe, and are taking the opportunity to remind fans about firework safety.
Group Manager Jason Moncrieff said: “Firefighters across Dorset and Wiltshire will be wishing England good luck on Sunday evening ahead of the final.
“We want to encourage football fans across the counties to enjoy the game and celebrate, or commiserate, safely.
“We want to make sure that the public are kept safe and feel safe and we’d encourage anyone who is using fireworks to consider the potential fire risks.”
Following England’s semi-final win against Denmark on Wednesday June 7, hundreds of fans congregated in Bournemouth town centre singing chants and dancing, with some lighting flares in the crowd.
Firefighters are urging people to follow some simple steps to make sure that everyone has a good time without getting hurt.
Mr Moncrieff added: “There are a few simple things that can be done to reduce these risks, always follow the instructions on each firework and light them at arm’s length, using a taper and ensure that bonfires and fireworks are away from sheds, fences and other flammable materials.”
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have a few simple rules residents can follow to ensure fireworks are used safely:
The are:
· Keep fireworks 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 put fireworks, even those which are fully spent, on the bonfire.
· Never dispose of fireworks by burying them.
· Safely dispose of fully spent fireworks.
· Soak misfired or partly spent fireworks in a container of water in an area where they cannot be tampered with (preferably away from the display site) and contact the manufacturer or supplier for advice on disposal.
For anyone thinking about using fireworks this weekend, more safety advice and information can be found on the DWFRS website – www.dwfire.org.uk/safety/safety-at-home/seasonal-advice/fireworks
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