PEOPLE are being reminded to take extra care when attending firework and bonfire night event.

South Western Ambulance Service recommends people attend an organised event rather than having fireworks at home.

It has shared a number of tips to ensure people have an enjoyable and safe time.

They include standing well back from any firework that has been lit, even if it has not gone off, as it could still explode.

Not consuming alcohol if you’re planning on setting off fireworks.

Wearing gloves when holding sparklers and keeping a bucket of sand or water handy to put used sparklers in.

Sparklers should also be kept away from faces, clothes or other people.

People should also stay at a safe distance from a bonfire, at least five metres away, and avoid wearing loose fitting clothing around naked flames.

The ambulance service said people must also not burn aerosols, batteries, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint on bonfires as they may explode and cause injury.

In a life-threatening emergency, dial 999 and request an ambulance. For non-life-threatening emergencies, people can access appropriate care by visiting NHS 111 Online, contacting their GP or getting advice from a pharmacy.