NHS advice in the run up to Bonfire night

Every year ambulance crews deal with a number of patients who have firework and bonfire-related injuries, and this year will be no exception.

Dr Julian Mark, Medical Director at Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said: “During the week of Bonfire Night festivities our staff will treat a number of children and adults with injuries ranging from minor burns to more serious, life-threatening conditions.

“Fireworks are safe when used properly and accidents are avoidable. However, they can cause devastating injuries if safety precautions are not followed.

“We recommend that people attend a professionally-organised public display but if you are planning to host your own event, please make safety a priority to ensure everyone has a good time without getting hurt.”

The service has issed the following advice in the event of an accident with fireworks and fires:

If the patient is alight, extinguish any flames by rolling them on the ground.

Use cold water (ideally cold running water) to cool the burned area and reduce pain.

Do not remove burned clothing which has stuck to the skin.

Do not use skin creams or oils.

Seek urgent medical help if injuries are serious by calling 999

For minor injuries, visit a minor injuries unit or contact NHS 111.

For more information on firework safety, visit The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Safer Fireworks website: www.saferfireworks.com