Bonfire night: Mum of girl burned at 4 warns of firework safety

Bonfire night: Mum of girl burned at 4 warns of firework safety


A quick response from the emergency services was key for Rosie-May, but fire and police unions say firefighters being attacked is slowing response times.

Last Bonfire Night, police control centres in Wales took over 1,500 calls for help.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) Wales said firefighters have increasingly been attacked with rocks and fireworks, as well as abusive comments over the past decade.

Gareth Tovey, from FBU Wales, said: “The worst thing is, it means that we need to potentially withdraw from that situation and we have to remember we were only ever there to make sure people are safe.”

He added that groups of youths would often hold their phones up and film on occasions which could really affect firefighters.

While Bonfire Night is the busiest night of the year for firefighters, Mr Tovey said these attacks were not limited to 5 November.

“We certainly see these attacks on crews throughout the year, at different holiday events and through different school holidays.”

Home Office figures recorded a 60% increase in attacks across the UK compared to 10 years ago.



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