As Bonfire Night nears, Sunderland City Council is encouraging residents to help keep their families and communities safe by following key safety advice on bonfires, fireworks, and anti-social behaviour.
In partnership with Gentoo, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, and Northumbria Police, the council is calling on everyone to play their part in making sure this year’s celebrations are safe, considerate, and enjoyable for all.
It is also reminding residents that bonfires are not permitted on land owned by Sunderland City Council or Gentoo and asking them to report any unlit bonfires immediately. Nor should bonfires be built or lit on private land unless the landowner has given explicit permission.
Residents are also asked not to leave waste or flammable materials to collect in gardens or around homes, as these may be used to build bonfires. Anyone found adding material to a lit or unlit bonfire may face enforcement action.
To help reduce the risk of fire, residents are being asked not to leave their bins out overnight before collection. Instead, bins should be placed at the kerbside by 7.30am on the day they are due to be emptied and returned to the property as soon as possible after being emptied.
When it comes to fireworks, the safest option is to attend an organised display rather than setting off fireworks at home. If you’re buying fireworks, it’s important to only buy from licensed retailers and avoid unlicensed shops or unknown sellers on social media platforms. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase fireworks. On nights when fireworks are expected, it’s also advisable keep pets indoors to reduce distress.
Families should also be aware that many children’s fancy dress costumes are highly flammable and can catch fire very quickly. This is because they are classed as toys and do not meet the same fire safety standards as regular clothing. To help keep little ones safe, parents and carers are advised to check costume labels for UKCA or CE marks, add a layer of clothing underneath, and keep costumes well away from candles, pumpkins, and open flames. With a few simple precautions, we can all enjoy a fun and fire-safe Halloween.
Councillor Kelly Chequer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities at Sunderland City Council, said:
“We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night safely, and that means working together to prevent unregulated fires, reduce anti-social behaviour, and protect our communities. We’re asking residents to follow the guidance, report any concerns, and help us make this season safe and enjoyable for all.”
Paul Russell, Area Manager for Community Safety at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said:
“Even a small fire can quickly get out of control, putting people at serious risk and causing damage to property and the environment. Every year, our crews attend thousands of deliberate fires, which place additional pressure on emergency services – a fire appliance can’t be in two places at once.
“We always encourage people to attend organised displays. These events are professionally managed and reduce the risks linked to home fireworks and unregulated bonfires.
“By following safety advice and reporting any concerns early, residents can help us protect communities and ensure everyone stays safe.”
To report concerns about items accumulating or bonfires being built on Gentoo land, residents should contact Gentoo on 0191 525 5000. To report unlit bonfires on council land, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/illegal-unlit-bonfire or call 0191 520 5550. For lit bonfires or emergencies requiring immediate response, call 999. Deliberate fire-setting can be reported anonymously to Firestoppers by calling 0800 169 5558 or visiting www.firestoppersreport.co.uk.
The council thanks all residents for their continued support in keeping Sunderland safe during the bonfire period.
