Hop-tu-Naa and Bonfire night are fast approaching, these dates are renowned for big events, large groups of people being outside and lots of fun.

To ensure these events continue to be a highlight during the darkest and coldest months of the year we would like to share some top safety advice.

â?¢ Plastic capes and bin liners are often used as costumes - keep them away from candles or other naked flames

â?¢ Use battery-operated lights within homemade lanterns and pumpkins. Battery operated lights are much safer than candles

â?¢ Take extra care with candles - they are extremely hazardous. If the candle tips over it could set light to materials such as costumes, curtains, clothes and furniture and start a serious fire. Make sure they are extinguished properly before leaving the house or going to bed and are out of reach of children

â?¢ Only buy fireworks from a reputable shop and ensure they are CE marked. Keep them in a closed metal box and ensure you follow the instructions

â?¢ Only adults should handle fireworks

â?¢ Keep fireworks in a box and only use one at a time

â?¢ In case of an emergency keep buckets of water, sand or the garden hose close by

â?¢ Place fireworks on a stable surface and light at arm’s length using a taper, stand well back and never throw nor go back to a lit firework

â?¢ Do not burn household rubbish or white goods on a bonfire. Keep your bonfire within a cordon area away from fireworks, people, property and trees and never light using flammable liquid. Check for animals hiding before lighting

â?¢ Keep pets indoors and ensure children are safe and a good distance away from the fireworks

â?¢ Pour water on bonfire embers to ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving or going to bed

â?¢ If using sparklers ensure they are held in a gloved hand at arm’s length and there is a bucket of water to put them in once the sparkler is out

We also have a message from our colleagues in the police force:

We want everyone to enjoy themselves but ask that due consideration is given to safety and have respect for vulnerable members of the community when setting off fireworks.

It is important that the night is a success and nobody wants the police at the door due to complaints.

There are some excellent displays planned in the island but that means that there will be high numbers of people travelling to and from the events. Please plan your journeys to arrive in plenty of time and park considerately and legally so that everyone can get to and from the events safely.

We want everyone to have a good time, so follow our safety advice and remember these three key responsibilities:

â?¢ Keep yourself and others safe

â?¢ Keep all pets and animals indoors

â?¢ Respect the community in which you live