Durham County Council, and Durham and the Fire and Rescue Service are working together to help people keep themselves and others safe when holding Bonfire Night parties in their own communities.
A free workshop is open to anyone on Monday 21st October at Newton Aycliffe Fire Station from 5.30pm, for a 6pm start, until 7.30pm.
People are reminded to only buy fireworks from a reputable retailer to avoid being sold illegal or counterfeit fireworks, which do not meet safety standards and could cause serious injury.
The workshops are aimed at people who are unable to attend an organised fireworks display and who plan to hold their own small Bonfire Night party in their local community.
Andrew Allison, community safety manager for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Fireworks can seriously injure and scar people for life if they are not treated with care. “It is important that they meet safety standards and they should also be stored properly.
“The firework safety code must also be followed at organised or small bonfire night events and these workshops are designed to give organisers expert advice about how to make their event safe and enjoyable for all.”
Trading standards officers from Durham County Council and Darlington Borough Council will also be visiting retailers to give advice on the safe storage of fireworks and check that procedures are in place to prevent fireworks from being sold to children.
Test purchasing will be carried out to ensure those procedures are being followed properly.
Anyone interested in attending the workshop should contact Durham County Council on 03000 260 920 or by emailing safeevents@durham.gov.uk
Further information is available at www.ddfire.gov.uk People can report fireworks safety issues, such as suspected counterfeit fireworks or underage sales, to Durham County Council on 03000 260 913.