Emergency services and public organisations are urging Telford residents to “remember, remember” and stay safe this Bonfire Night.
West Mercia Police are reinforcing the message with a series of extra patrols around November 5 which will target the sale of fireworks to underage children.
Sergeant Clive Venables said: “Bonfire Night is one of the events in the calendar that children really look forward to. However, some people don’t enjoy these events and can find them intimidating.
“We are appealing to young people and parents to bear this in mind and to act sensibly on Bonfire Night.”
Steve Purslow, station manager at Telford Central Fire Station, said: “There are so many organised firework displays and bonfires in the region that we would suggest that people go along to one of those.”
The pet charity PDSA, which has its headquarters in Priorslee, has warned of the stress that pets face.
Their tips to pet owners include keeping pets indoors at night, closing all windows, doors, curtains and cat flaps, and microchipping pets in case they get lost.
One of the biggest fireworks displays is at Donnington on November 15.
Although residents have raised some concerns over smoke emissions, Telford & Wrekin Council said the event would be monitored by its Environmental Health team.
Bonfire organiser Alf Mitchell said they used only wooden pellets, no trees or bushes and security guards ensured nothing else was thrown on the bonfire.
l See also Page 42.