Northumberland children warned about fireworks and bonfires

The school tours are part of the 'Bonfires and Fireworks Ruin Lives in a Flash' campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the dangers of illegal bonfires and fireworks misuse and to reduce anti-social behaviour linked to bonfires and fireworks.

Alongside talks and presentations, new tactics are being used to help spread safety messages to the young audiences.

These include using bluetooth technology to communicate information via mobile phone and using the world of social networking, with groups on websites Facebook and Bebo. People can use the sites to share messages and view campaign videos and images.

Brian Hesler, Chief Fire Officer at Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We want to encourage children to think about their safety on bonfire night and to make them aware of their responsibilities so that they don't break the law.

It is really important that we get the message across to young people that fireworks and bonfires are very dangerous and can have devastating consequences. That's the message behind this year's campaign."

The 'Bonfires and Fireworks Ruin Lives in a Flash' campaign is being led by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service and Northumbria Police, working in partnership with local authorities, the Ambulance Service and the NHS.

Keep safe this year by following the tips below:

• Attend an organised display rather than having your own bonfire
• Report illegal bonfires that are being built to your local authority
• Call 999 to report any illegal bonfires that have been lit
• Remember: alcohol and fireworks don't mix
• Always supervise children around fireworks
• Never give sparklers to children under five
• Keep pets indoors
• Ensure you bring your wheelie bin in as soon as it is emptied - it is a target for arson if you don't!

More safety tips and details of organised displays are available on the campaign website, www.ruinlivesinaflash.com.