Fire and Emergency is urging people to take greater care with fireworks.

People should be vigilant when lighting fireworks, particularly with the recent high winds.

Fire and Emergency encourages people to attend public fireworks displays, instead of lighting their own.

If you are going to light fireworks, you should always check the conditions first.

• Do not light fireworks if it is windy and make sure you have a safe set up when lighting your fireworks.
• Light them in a wide-open space, away from anything that could catch fire and have a bucket of water or hose nearby.
• Check you have the landowner’s permission and remember that many public spaces have fireworks bans in place - this includes most council-managed parks and beaches.
• Ensure your fireworks are pointed at the sky and not at people, pets or anyone’s home.
• Let your neighbours know if you are planning to set off fireworks and keep your pets inside.
• Dispose of your fireworks safely and soak them in water before you throw them out.