Bonfire alarm call-outs cut by half in Cheshire

Cheshire firefighters have been called out to only half the number of bonfire incidents compared to last year.

Chief Fire Officer, Paul Hancock, has thanked people for listening to safety advice over the bonfire period.

Although the 2013 bonfire period does not end until today early indications are that call-outs will be down by around a half this year.

Mr Hancock, said: "The Bonfire period is always a busy time for firefighters and control staff, however the work we do in advance alongside our partners is still helping us drive down the numbers of incidents."

"Our aim is not to stop people from having fun, it is about keeping people safe as they enjoy what should be a fun family event."

"I would like to thank everyone who took our advice and attended an organised display rather than putting on their own."

The 2013 bonfire period runs from October 17th until today November 7th so official numbers are still to be verified but so far crews have been called out to around 78 incidents across Cheshire, compared to a confirmed 171 call-outs in 2012.

Widnes Fire Station has been the busiest station with fire crews attending 27 confirmed bonfire incidents followed by Ellesmere Port and Winsford.

Several stations enjoyed a call-free period including Nantwich, Birchwood, Stockton Heath, Frodsham, Congleton, Bollington and Knutsford.

For a full list of the incidents attended by Cheshire firefighters readers can visit Cheshire Fire and Rescue's Bonfire night report page.

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