Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Spark into action this November

The whizz and pop of fireworks and the crackle of a bonfire on and around Bonfire Night should be enjoyed safely by all. 

But this period of the year can trigger fear, anxiety and dread for many, especially pets and vulnerable members of the West Lancashire community. 

The banging of loud fireworks, anti-social or reckless behaviour and scared pets can cause distress. 

In a bid to combat this, West Lancashire Community Safety Partnership has put the Bright Sparx plan into action once again. 

What is Bright Sparx? 

It’s a multi-agency campaign centred around safety messages, high visibility patrols at key times and education events to help everyone stay safe, happy and content during the Bonfire Night period. 

As part of the plan, control measures such as increased police foot patrols and pre-empting areas susceptible to anti-social behaviour are deployed. There are also seven designated areas across the Borough, designated for safe bonfire construction (listed below). 

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) will also be hosting a series of fire safety talks at West Lancashire's secondary schools. LFRS have also shared vital fire safety tips and advice for members of the public who plan purchase fireworks to set off at home. These include only buying fireworks with a CE mark (the safety standard that all fireworks should meet), never returning to a lit firework and reading firework instructions with a torch and never a naked flame. 

Councillor Gareth Dowling, Deputy Leader of the Council and lead member for Planning and Community Safety, said: "The Bright Sparx initiative is a crucial part of the Council’s commitment to promoting a safe and fun Bonfire Night period for all. 

“We would like to encourage people to show extra care and consideration to members of our communities who are hesitant to take park in fireworks celebrations. 

“These could be the elderly, people with autism or special educational and sensory needs, those suffering from PTSD, pets and livestock.” 

"Together with our partners and the community, we can keep our neighbourhoods in West Lancashire safe while reducing the stress on others." 

Paul Charlson, Chair of the West Lancashire Community Safety Partnership, added: "I'd like to offer my thanks and gratitude to all of our partner agencies involved with supporting this partnership approach to the bonfire period and working together to make West Lancashire a safe place to enjoy the bonfire period.  

"The Bright Sparx campaign is a vital way for the Council and our partner agencies to work together and make sure everyone from all walks of life have an enjoyable and safe Bonfire Night period." 

What else is happening as part of Bright Sparx? 

  • The Council’s Clean & Green Team will endeavour to remove any reported bonfire construction within the Borough ahead of and on the day of Sunday, November 5
  • The team will also move bonfire waste on November 6, following dampening down by LFRS
  • LFRS will have a multi-agency vehicle (MAIAT) operation on standby on the November 5
  • The Youth Zone Bus, with support from Wigan Athletic Community Trust will be at Coronation Park on October 30 between 6pm and 10pm 

 

Seven designated sites within Borough permitted for bonfire construction: 

  1. Alderley (on the left-hand side on the grass by the subway to Pimbo)
  2. Bankfield (left hand side on the grass)
  3. Evington (left hand side by the play area)
  4. Eskbank (grassed area at the entrance)
  5. Hallcroft Field (grassed area by the play area)
  6. The Winsters (grassed area on right hand side)
  7. Railway Road (grassed area to the rear of Woodrow)

Additional information: 

Blue Cross

PDSA 

RSPCA

Dogs Trust

Firework Safety