This Bonfire Night, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding residents that professionally organised displays are the safest way for you and your family to enjoy fireworks.

Since 2018, Hertfordshire County Council has removed approximately 1000 fireworks from traders in the county, and Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service report a significant increase in Bonfire Night-related incidents.

Area Commander Steve Holton added: "Fireworks and bonfires can be extremely dangerous – they can cause injury, damage property, and harm wildlife. If you'd like to view fireworks, it's best to go to a display and leave it to the professionals.

"If you do decide to set off fireworks at home, we urge you to do so with caution. Read the instructions carefully and ensure that there is enough space to keep them away from spectators. Bonfires should be lit well away from fences, sheds, hedges, and buildings."

Follow fire and rescue service and trading standards advice if you are using fireworks:

Only fireworks that are CE or UKCA marked are legal

Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm, or midnight on 5 November

Keep fireworks in a closed box

Follow the instructions on each firework

Light them at arm's length using a taper

Stand well back

Never go back to a lit firework

Never throw fireworks or put fireworks in your pocket

Keep pets and younger children indoors during displays

Light sparklers one at a time and always wear gloves

Never give sparklers to a child under five

Fire service advice if you're planning a bonfire:

Build bonfires well away from fences, sheds, hedges, and buildings

Always keep a bucket of water nearby in case your bonfire gets out of control

Never leave a bonfire unattended

Make sure you have properly damped out a bonfire before leaving it – they can reignite