Good bonfire guidelines

We recommend the following procedure:

• Always observe the simple courtesy of letting your neighbours know when you intend to light the fire.

• Always check the stack intended for burning to look for hibernating hedgehogs and other animals that may be in it. Start the bonfire at a safe distance away from the stack.

• Smoke hangs in the air on damp days and in the evening; so try and avoid lighting a fire under such conditions.

• Avoid burning on windy days as the prevailing wind direction may blow smoke or sparks directly into neighbouring properties.

• Only burn dry material and NEVER burn household rubbish or anything containing plastic, foam or paint. Do not take rubbish to the site to burn.

• Never under any circumstances use an accelerator (e.g. petrol) to get the bonfire started.

• Never leave the bonfire unattended always wait until everything has burned down before leaving the site. Never use water to douse a bonfire; it may appear as if the fire has been safely put out but the water only serves to superheat the ashes and they could re-ignite some hours later. When you have to leave the bonfire site always throw soil over it to smother the heat source.

Guidance by National Allotment Society.