THE number of fires caused by fireworks has fallen dramatically in West Yorkshire over the last two years.
Fire chiefs urged people to keep up the good work by following all the firework safety rules again this time.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service's Assistant Chief Fire Officer David Monks said: "Bonfire night can be an excellent event for families and friends to go out and enjoy themselves, but it is important safety comes first when dealing with what are essentially explosives and large outdoor fires."
In October 2003 there were 55 fires caused by fireworks dealt with by West Yorkshire firefighters - a drop from the 192 figure for October 2002.
In Kirklees the number fell from 25 to five.
The figures for last month are still being compiled, but indications are they will be significantly lower again this year.
Bonfire safety tips include:
* Use only clean, dry materials on bonfires. Don't burn foam-filled furniture, beds, aerosols, paint tins, waste materials and rubbish as they may give off toxic fumes.
* Never use flammable liquids like paraffin or petrol to get it going.
* Check before lighting that there are no animals of even young children hidden inside
* Never put fireworks on a bonfire
* Make sure the bonfire is put out completely at the end of the night.
