Keep safe while having fun this Bonfire night – a message from WRS

Many of our staff are also our residents, so we'd like to draw your attention to safety guidance issued this week by Worcestershire Regulatory Services around handling fireworks safely and the wellbeing of our furry friends at this time.

The cancellation of organised firework displays across the county will result in an increased number of home displays this year, but WRS are reminding residents that safety at this time is of utmost importance. Guidance should be taken from Worcestershire County Council to ensure Bonfire Night is enjoyed safely. WRS would also like to remind residents that it is against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions which include Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight.

Here are some top tips for firework safety from Worcestershire County Council's Trading Standards Team if you are planning to hold a display at home:

Buy fireworks from a reputable company and only over 18s should handle them.

Never go back to a firework once it has been lit and keep them away from fire risks like fences and sheds.

Wear gloves when handling sparklers and placed in a bucket of water once finished.

Keep children and animals inside during the display, let them watch from the windows. People outside should stand well back from the fireworks.

Many pets struggle at this time of the year and get very distressed by fireworks, and with many adapting to their owners returning to work may already feel more anxious.

Here are some top tips from WRS to keep your fur babies happier this bonfire night:

• If you are going out leave the radio or television on, low, so it will disguise the bangs.

• Keep pets indoors

• Make them a snuggly den out of blankets, creating a place for them to hide

• Take dogs for walks and exercise horses in the daylight

• Invest in toys or treats that will occupy your pets such as a lick matt or a Kong's that you can fill with yummy treats. Alternatively, scatter treats around your home for your pets to sniff out

• Consider homeopathy remedies, plug-ins etc to help relax your pet.

If anyone requires more information on either of these topics, visit the Worcestershire Regulatory Services' website www.worcsregservices.gov.uk. Alternatively, check out their social media platforms.

Residents are also reminded that complaints regarding bonfire night incidents, including nuisance complaints, should be directed to the specified telephone number and email address rather than communicating through social media channels.