Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is encouraging the public to stay safe this Halloween and Bonfire Night.

MAWWFRS is working in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police, South Wales Police, local authorities, and other partner agencies to create a safer environment for everyone during Halloween and Bonfire Night, allowing communities to celebrate responsibly and safely.

The service is now sharing vital safety advice for those that who wish to celebrate:

For many, especially children and young people, Halloween is an opportunity to wear fancy dress costumes, carve pumpkins, tell scary stories and of course, the annual knocking on doors of people that they know for “treats”, but this celebration can present with potential fire risks.

Here are some of the potential dangers and what can be done to reduce the risks, to ensure the community enjoys a safe Halloween:

• Keep exits clear and unobstructed, which is a particular issue during Halloween where items are placed around the house and near to exit points for decoration purposes.

• It’s vitally important that costumes carry the ‘CE’ mark on the label. Even so, like all clothing, costumes can easily catch fire.

• Consider candle alternatives, such as flameless battery-operated LED candles that will provide the desired spooky effect. Whilst providing added benefits such as being able to use them outside without being blown out in the wind.

Steven Davies, Head of Community Safety for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue said: “Over the Halloween period the risks associated with fire are heightened. With the use of naked flames in pumpkins, along with the use of costumes that are potentially non-complaint with fire safety regulations, it could be a recipe for disaster.

“If you are planning on wearing fancy dress this Halloween, please ensure your costume has the ‘CE’ mark. Simple actions can drastically improve the chances of having a safe and happy Halloween, such as using LED candles in your pumpkins and keeping exits clear from Halloween decorations.”

Bonfire night traditionally has a heavy impact on MAWWFRS and partner agencies. As a result, the service advises everyone to respect their communities, protect themselves, others, the environment, and emergency services from harm, and enjoy events by following basic safety precautions.

Every year, MAWWFRS witness dangerous bonfires being built. These bonfires may include items which are toxic or other items which present a danger to spectators, whether it be risk of explosion or other circumstances. Not only do these bonfires pose a danger to the public, but the environment can be badly affected by poorly built bonfires. The service’s arson reduction and community safety members will be working with police and local authority colleagues to ensure that communities are kept safe.

Arson Reduction Manager, Scott O’Kelly said: "This time of year can bring fun and entertainment for all the family. It does however have some serious dangers associated with bonfires and the use of fireworks. Traditionally, problems occur with the use of fireworks, especially when they get into the wrong hands.

“There are simple things that can be done to ensure spectators, and the surrounding environment is kept unharmed and undamaged during bonfire night. Many dangers can be reduced by attending an official organised firework display. To stay safe and legal this bonfire night, please follow the information provided on our website”.

Fireworks are graded within categories, with differing minimum safety distances, and have specific instructions that should be adhered to in order to ensure that everyone is kept safe.

Always buy from a reputable retailer and follow individual firework instructions.

Be sure to store fireworks as per the instructions listed, fireworks should be stored in their original packaging in a dry place away from sources of heat or ignition

Always store fireworks away from children.

MAWWFRS is encouraging the public to celebrate both evenings in the safest way possible.