Safety first as bonfire season approaches

by Gillian McDade

Bonfire organisers are being reminded to put safety first to protect people, property and the environment.

The message comes this week from Mid-Ulster District Council.

The council along with the PSNI, Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, have drawn up a set of guidelines:

·Put safety first: never put lives at risk and always ensure responsible adults are in attendance at bonfires.

· Protect people and property: ensure that bonfires are located away from homes, play areas, fuel tanks and power lines.

· Always consider the environment: harmful toxins can be released when inappropriate materials are burned. Never burn tyres or any other hazardous material on a bonfire.

 · Encourage a positive atmosphere: respect all cultures and traditions. Burning inappropriate material also includes other people’s images, flags and election posters.

· Remember the clean up: consider the arrangements for the bonfire clean-up and how any damaged surfaces can be restored.

 For more information about bonfire safety, visit www.midulstercouncil.org/celebratesafely.