Northwest ambulance crews have issued a 'stay safe' plea ahead of Guy Fawkes night.
Paramedics are stretched every year by extra callouts to bonfires and fireworks displays.
David Blowers, Community Specialist Paramedic at NWAS, said: “Each Bonfire Night me and my colleagues treat a number of patients, children and adults, who have called the ambulance service suffering from minor burns through to extremely serious and life-changing injuries.
“We should all be mindful of how dangerous fireworks, bonfires and even sparklers can be. Sparklers can burn up to 1000 degrees centigrade and fireworks can reach speeds of 150mph, which will cause serious damage to anything it hits.
“Throughout the celebrations always remember to keep a watchful eye on your children to keep them out of harm’s way and if you are handling or lighting fireworks yourself, always remember to follow the instructions and adhere to the Firework Code.
“We recommend that people attend a professionally-organised public display. However, if you are planning to host your own event please make safety a priority to ensure everyone has a good time without getting hurt.”
You can find the NHS advice below:
In the event of an accident with fireworks or fires you should:
- Extinguish any flames if the casualty is alight
- If alight, drop to the floor and roll to extinguish flames, keeping mouth and eyes closed
- If you see someone else on fire, tell them to ‘Stop, drop and roll’
- Use cold water (ideally cold running water) to cool the burnt area and reduce the pain
- Do not remove any burnt clothing which has stuck to the skin
- Do not use any creams or oils on burn injuries
- Seek urgent medical help by calling 999 for life threatening or serious injuries, for minor injuries contact NHS 111.