Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) have released a number of warnings ahead of bonfire night on Tuesday, November 5.

Thousands of people will be heading out on Tuesday to organised bonfire and fireworks event across Cumbria.

CFRS have advised local residents not to have bonfires in their own garden as they can “easily get out of hand and cause a risk to life” and to attend public firework displays rather than organise their own.

A spokesperson for CFRS said: “There are lots of organised bonfire events each year, with full safety precautions taking place in advance.

“Professional events will have full risk assessments in place, with things like escape routes, first aid, emergency firefighting equipment to hand.

"Organisers also alert the local council and emergency services of the event, so that we are aware it’s happening.

“This difference with holding your own is that the fire can get out of hand and become very dangerous.

“For many people, fireworks form a key element in celebrating Bonfire Night. Watching a firework display can be exciting and beautiful and we want you to enjoy them safely.

“However, we know that many people purchase fireworks every year. It’s vital you remember that they contain explosives and can cause a lot of harm if not stored and used correctly.”

CFRS have given a series of suggestion on how to keep safe if organised a private bonfire and firework event.

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Their advice includes:

  • Keep the fire well away from fences and sheds.
  • Do not build the fire under any trees or bushes.
  • Check there are no children or animals hiding in the bonfire before you light it.
  • Place a barrier around the fire and keep everyone at least 5m away when lit.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby just in case.
  • Never drink alcohol when handling fireworks.
  • Stand well back when they are lit.
  • Never return to a lit firework until it has gone off.

If there are any risks of a fire, please call 999.