THE FIRE service is encouraging the public to dispose of fireworks safely this Bonfire Night.

A spokesperson for Cumbria Fire and Rescue service said: “Due to the current pandemic and government restrictions on social gatherings, many organised Bonfire Night displays are cancelled this year.

"This brings the risk of many home organised bonfires and firework celebrations.”

It is currently against the law to hold gatherings of more than six people at home or in your garden.

However, if member of the public are celebrating this Bonfire Night, the service is encouraging them to do it safely: “Fireworks must be stored safely, in a closed box, somewhere cool and dry, out of reach of children and animals, until the time they are needed.

"Don't keep the box under the stairs or in a passageway."

The public are asked to make sure they have enough space for fireworks in their garden.

Head of Prevention for Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service Will Richardson said: "We want everyone to enjoy the bonfire season responsibly and encourage multiple families not to host their own bonfires or events.

Garden bonfires can easily get out of control. Not only do these pose a serious risk to yourself, your family and the public, but they also take our crews away from other potentially life-threatening incidents.

A great deal of work goes into preparing communities for the bonfire period, in order to clear any potential fuel for deliberate fire setting.