Staying safe this Bonfire Night

We’re committed to ensuring that everyone living within our communities feel safe and secure.

As Bonfire Night quickly approaches, we’ve teamed up with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) to provide some simple ways to help you stay safe whilst still enjoying communal bonfires and firework displays.

Attend organised events 

• We strongly encourage attending professionally organised displays, which are safer and more enjoyable. These events are managed by trained professionals and allow you to relax and appreciate the displays together with friends and family.

Be prepared 

• Keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby.
• Have a mobile phone ready in case of an emergency.

Managing your bins

• Try to put out your wheelie bin as close to your emptying time as possible to avoid anti-social behaviour by others.
• Bring in your wheelie bin as soon as possible after rubbish collection.
• Don’t stack additional bin bags to the side of your wheelie bins. Any bulky items should be discarded in the appropriate manner by using your local Household Waste and Recycling Centres.

Respect the law

• It is illegal to set off fireworks in the street or other public places.
• Anti-social behaviour involving fireworks can lead to potential fines or prosecution.

Report unsafe activity

Last year, Firefighters from TWFRS responded to 521 deliberate fires between the 17 October and 17 November 2025. All these occasions were potentially delaying responses to life-threatening emergencies elsewhere. 

If you see unsafe bonfires or the misuse of fireworks, please report it:

• Dial 101 or contact your Local Authority for non-emergency concerns
• You can also report any fires in your local community anonymously to Firestoppers on 0800 1695558

Thank you for helping us keep our communities safe this Bonfire Night.