Do not Fawke about on Bonfire Night

The great British tradition of blowing things up (more commonly known as Bonfire Night) is creeping closer, but experts are warning revellers to be careful on November 5th, as fireworks can cause a lot of damage to your property - and others too.

Festivities will be held across the UK on Monday November 5th in order to mark the foiling of a plot by Guy Fawkes to destroy the Houses of Parliament.

According to the Fire Service, the average cost to repair homes damaged on Bonfire Night last year was £307, most damaged caused by wayward rockets breaking windows.

The fire service added that 35 per cent of people are not familiar with the Firework Code of safety, which could result in that figure rising.

Youths also get hold of fireworks and set them off in the streets, causing a lot of commotion and damage. Last year fire damage to cars rose 78% on bonfire night.

A Fire Service spokesperson commented that, "It is important to behave in a responsible way on bonfire night - people love the colours and explosions, but many fail to adhere to safety guidelines."

"One common mistake is returning to a firework that has been lit, but looks like it has burned out - in most cases the firework is still live and could go off at any second."

It is also suggested that kids stay indoors during most of a home display, as fireworks can sometimes fall over with a gust of wind and point directly at the property.

"If the proper precautions are not taken, it could result in a personal or financial emergency," he said.

People with pets may want to consider keeping them indoors while the festivities go on, or sending them to a relative or neighbours house for the night.