Safety advice ahead of weekend’s parties

AS THE nation prepares to party, advice is being given to enjoy the festivities safely.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued the guidance to cover all four days of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The first key message is to inform them if a jubilee beacon lighting ceremony is planned. Calling the non-emergency fire control number of 0118 938 4900 will ensure it is recorded as a controlled burn, and avoid fire engines being sent out to a false alarm.

Beacons should be set up away from anything that could catch fire, taking into account wind direction. It should not be lit with accelerants. Water should be kept nearby, along with a first aid kit, including a burns pack.

It is illegal to leave a fire unattended or to have too few people to control it.

Those witnessing the beacon should be in a well-constructed cordon away from the fire, with highly visible marshals who have received some instruction to help control them.

Water should be used to put the fire out, and it should be completely extinguished before leaving. It needs to be checked on Jubilee Friday to ensure it did not reignite.

When it comes to street parties, access is still needed for emergency vehicles such as fire engines and ambulances, who could need access at any time.

Emergency services should also be aware of any road closures, but permission should have been granted by the council, who consult with the emergency services as part of the process.

At gatherings where fireworks will be used, the fire and rescue service warns that anyone who has consumed alcohol should not be involved in the display, or take a turn at the barbecue.

People should also plan their journey home and not be tempted to drink and drive.

Only fireworks with a CE mark should be used and they should be kept in a closed box before use, never in a pocket, or thrown.

Under fives should not use sparklers, others need gloves.

As ever, the firework code applies – never return to a lit firework, as it could still explode. The fire and rescue service do not recommend using flying lanterns due to the fire hazards and risks they pose to property, crops, animals and the environment.

Finally, the fire and rescue service have issued guidance on the use of barbecues.

They should be sited away from sheds, fences, trees and shrubs, and on level ground.

If gas, the cylinders should stored outside, and lighter fluids should only be used on cold coals.

A bucket of water, sand, or a garden hose should be kept nearby for emergencies, while children should be kept well away. The barbecue should never be left unattended.

When cooking fatty foods, care should be taken as the dripping fat can cause the barbecue to flare up.

Barbecue should not be used indoors – even when the flames aren’t visible, it can still give off carbon monoxide fumes, which can be deadly.

And those under the influence of alcohol or prescription drugs are advised not to cook.