Safety advice has been offered to members of the public in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire night.

Oxfordshire County Council's Fire and Rescue team have provided advice around costumes and candles, firework displays and bonfires among other features.

The warnings come a week before Halloween and the Rescue team states the safest way to celebrate Bonfire Night is to attend a professionally organised public event.

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Community Safety Manager from Oxfordshire County Council's Fire and Rescue Service, Deb Forder, said: "Organised fireworks displays are more fun, cheaper and far safer than hosting your own fireworks or bonfire party."

The council also advises that great care must be taken with Chinese sky lanterns, Halloween costumes and decorations.

Notable pieces of advice relating to fire safety were:

  • Only buy CE marked fireworks from reputable and licensed shops
  • Keep fireworks in a closed, metal box
  • Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
  • Never drink alcohol while lighting a bonfire or setting off fireworks

It is advised that Chinese sky lanterns are not launched near flammable materials, near roads or airports, or in winds stronger than 5pmh.

Costumes and masks should be labelled as flame-resistant and the council also says that people should consider using flameless candles.

Decorations should not be attached to lights or heaters.

Ms Forder added: "Remember that fire safety is much more than fireworks and great care should also be taken with Chinese sky lanterns, and with Halloween costumes and decorations."