Londoners urged to take care with fireworks

Londoners are urged to go to official fireworks events

Council bosses and firefighters in east London are urging Londoners to treat fireworks with care as Guy Fawkes Night approaches.

During the weekend before Diwali, the brigade said it had taken 32 firework-related calls and on 20 October, the day of the festival, a stray firework destroyed cladding on the third floor of a block of flats in Ilford, east London. No-one was injured.

As bonfire celebrations are expected to run over the weekend the brigade has warned that "fireworks are explosives, and should be treated with respect".

Earlier this month, Aroen Kishen described how his wife, three children and two family friends were killed in 2023, after an ignited firework destroyed their home.

In the run up to Halloween, bonfire night and other cultural celebrations Redbridge Council and firefighters carried out visits to high rise flats and held a safety event at Ilford Station.

Ilford's fire station commander Angelo Comparini said: "We're urging Londoners to attend organised displays rather than using fireworks at home.

"If you do host your own, buy from a licensed seller, follow the Fireworks Code, and keep fireworks well away from buildings, trees, pets, and people."

He added: "Never set fireworks after drinking alcohol, and once lit — don't go back to them. Let them cool before disposal, and most importantly, celebrate safely. "

Saima Ahmed, who is the cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said: "Fireworks can be magical, but they do come with risks."

She also warned people about setting off fireworks from a balcony.

"It's incredibly dangerous and has led to serious accidents. Let's make this year's celebrations joyful, safe, and welcoming for everyone."