Stay safe this fireworks season

The public is being urged to enjoy Bonfire Night safely on Friday 5^th November.

Every year, the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) is called to people who have injuries related to bonfires or fireworks – the majority of which could have been avoided.

We strongly advise that you attend a professionally organised firework display but, if you are planning on organising your own event, here are our top tips:

• 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
• 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 use paraffin, petrol or any accelerant on a bonfire to get it going
• Always supervise children when using sparklers

The Trust is also reminding people how to deal with burns should it be needed and that they should only call 999 if it's a life-threatening emergency and use 111 for less urgent conditions.

• Stop the burning process as soon as possible. This may mean removing the person from the area, dousing flames with water or smothering flames with a blanket.  Do not put yourself at risk of getting burnt as well
• Remove any clothing or jewellery near the burnt area of skin. However, don't try to remove anything that is stuck to the burnt skin because this could cause more damage
• Cool the burn with cool or lukewarm water for 10 to 30 minutes. Never use ice, iced water or any creams or greasy substances such as butter
• Keep yourself or the person warm. Use a blanket or layers of clothing but avoid putting them on the injured area. Keeping warm will prevent hypothermia, where a person's body temperature drops below 35ºC (95ºF). This is a risk if you are cooling a large burnt area, particularly in young children and elderly people
• Cover the burn with cling film. Put the cling film in a layer over the burn, rather than wrapping it around a limb. A clean clear plastic bag can be used for burns on your hand.
• Treat the pain from a burn with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always check the manufacturer's instructions when using over the counter medication. Children under 16 years of age should not be given aspirin.
• If you are concerned seek medical advice by calling 111 or in emergencies call 999