Firefighters and councillors have urged residents not to forget fire safety while enjoying local Guy Fawkes Night displays.

To prevent injuries, residents have been told to wear gloves when using sparklers, buy fireworks marked BS 7114 and to keep fireworks in a closed box.

When lighting fireworks, you stand an arm’s length away using a taper, stand well back, never go back to a lit firework and never throw fireworks on a bonfire.

Pets should also be kept indoors to prevent danger or distress.

County Councillor Richard Smith said: “We want people to have a great time on bonfire night, without compromising their safety.

“Our advice would be to attend an organised firework display if possible, but if you do want to put on your own event it’s important to follow the firework code rigorously to minimise any risks.

“ Take the utmost care when storing, handling and using fireworks – whether organising a display for family, friends, or the general public.

“Although the number of accidents from fireworks has been decreasing in recent years, it’s important not to be complacent.”

He added: “The bulk of emergency calls received each year by Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service on Guy Fawkes’ Night are to bonfires which have got out of control.” He urges people to only build bonfires in the open, check for hidden aerosol cans, gas canisters and wildlife and not use petrol or paraffin.