Bonfire Night: Remember, remember to keep your bins safe this November

As Bonfire Night approaches, Hull City Council is working in partnership with Humberside Fire and Rescue to remind residents to take extra precautions to keep their bins safe from theft and arson.

The increased activity around November fifth can unfortunately lead to higher risk for unattended bins.

To highlight the dangers, Humberside Fire and Rescue will be placing yellow tags on bins that are at high risk, providing information on how to protect bins, as well as contact details for those with concerns about arson and antisocial behaviour.

To help prevent theft and arson attacks, residents should:

• Store bins safely within the boundary of their properties, especially at night

• Avoid blocking doorways and placing bins under windows

• Bins should be stored securely behind locked gates, where possible

• Put bins out at 7am on collection days and return them as soon as possible

• Avoid overfilling bins and leaving loose bagged rubbish around them.

To report a missed bin collection, visit Missed bin collection | Hull.

Further, Items such as beds, mattresses, wardrobes, tables and chairs should not be left at the front of properties, as they can also present a potential fire risk. To arrange a bulky item collection, visit Bulky collections | Hull or call 01482 300300.

Councillor Charles Quinn, portfolio holder for environment, said: "We want everyone to enjoy the Bonfire Night celebrations, but we also want to ensure everyone's safety. Unfortunately, there is an increased risk of theft and arson attacks on wheelie bins around this time.

"Simple steps, such as making sure your bin is not left out for longer than necessary can help to protect your bins and prevent unnecessary worry.

"By following these guidelines, residents can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable Bonfire Night for all."

The council, and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, also urge residents to stay safe when using fireworks.

Firework safety tips:

• Only buy fireworks with a UKCA mark (or CE mark if purchased before 1 January 2023) from reputable sellers.

• Keep fireworks stored in a closed box.

• Follow the instructions on each firework carefully.

• Always light fireworks at arm's length and stand well back.

• Never go back to a lit firework.

• Never throw fireworks.

• Remember, it is illegal to set off fireworks in public streets or places.

• For your pets' wellbeing, keep them indoors during firework displays.

Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Prevention at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service said: "As Bonfire Night approaches, the Service is committed to ensuring everyone enjoys the celebrations safely. Attending organised firework displays is the best way to guarantee both safety and fun.

"It's important to remember that Bonfire Night is not an excuse to dispose of household waste. Please use your local council's waste and recycling centres for the safe disposal of any rubbish.

"We're working with Humberside Police and local councils to prevent illegal bonfires and ensure fireworks are sold safely. If you suspect illegal firework sales, report it to Trading Standards on 0808 223 1133.

"To prevent arson, store wheelie bins securely as they are often targeted in anti-social behaviour, leading to dangerous fires and environmental harm."

For further information on how to stay safe, see Bonfire night safety | Humberside Fire