‘Unofficial’ Bonfires
Stamping out dangerous ‘hot spots’
(Date of issue: Tuesday, 1 November 2011)
On the build up to Bonfire Night, Carlisle City Council is
joining forces with local firefighters to stamp out dangerous ‘hot
spots’.
Both agencies are asking residents not to build fires in
dangerous places and to make sure they are not on land owned by the
City Council, unless formal permission has been granted.
The City Council is taking a zero-tolerance approach to
unofficial bonfires and if any resident would like to report one,
they can call 01228 817000 or email
customerservices@carlisle.gov.uk
Anyone wishing to organise their own bonfire on council land,
should also contact the City Council, on 01228 817000, to ask
permission and a series of safety measures need to be undertaken
including:
- providing a public liability insurance certificate for the
event;
- a risk assessment;
- safety procedures and emergency plan, including any
stewarding/security arrangements;
- having an organiser who has competence/previous experience in
arranging firework displays.
The Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service are also advising
residents not to build fires too early and not build them close to
buildings, roads or railways, and never put foam filled-furniture,
tyres or aerosols onto a bonfire.
During this week firefighters will be carrying out ‘arson
audits’ across the city to identify areas where there is a build up
or rubbish that could be used for unsafe bonfires.
Firefighters are advising people to attend organised bonfires
where safety is a priority.
Around 35,000 people are expected to attend this year’s Carlisle
City Council Fireshow (Saturday, 5 November). Staged in Bitts Park,
pre-entertainment, provided by Carlisle Leisure Limited, will start
at 6.30pm and the bonfire lit at 7pm. The whole event is likely to
last for around an hour. The event will include a 40-foot bonfire
and more than 2,000 fireworks. Admission is free.
Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service is giving their support for
this year's City Council Fireshow. They will also be using the
event to promote their free home safety check service and their
free installation of smoke detectors, both of which can be
organised by telephoning 0800 358 477.