Love them or hate them, this weekend there'll be fireworks aplenty as people celebrate Guy Fawkes.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) is encouraging people to have fun and stay safe if they are using fireworks. FENZ recommends that people attend public fireworks displays and has provided safety tips for personal use of fireworks:
- Read the firework instructions with a torch before using them.
- Light in a wide, open area away from anything that could catch fire.
- Fireworks, alcohol and drugs are a dangerous combination.
- Never let a child light fireworks.
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
- Keep all unlit fireworks in the box or bag until you are ready to use them.
- If one of your fireworks doesn't go, dispose of it safely. Place it in a bucket of water. Do not attempt to relight it.
- Any minor burns should be put under cold running water for at least 20 minutes.
- For serious burns, seek medical attention.
- Think about others: Fireworks are noisy - consider your neighbours; keep pets inside when fireworks are being used; point fireworks at the stars, not at your mates.
According to the MetService forecast, Saturday night looks the best weather-wise this weekend so take particular care of your animals that evening but remember that the fireworks go on for more than one night.
SPCA New Zealand has some tips for keeping animals safe: