Friday, October 31, 2025
Lancashire Police, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) have teamed up once again to launch a safety campaign ahead of Bonfire Night, aiming to curb anti-social behaviour and protect communities.
In the lead up the celebration, local policing teams and partner agencies have been actively engaging in with schools across East Lancashire. Their aim is to educate young people about the dangers of fireworks and the importance of behaving responsibly during the festivities. These sessions emphasise how reckless actions can endanger lives, harm local communities and place additional strain on emergency services.
The campaign also shines a light on the potential legal consequences of anti-social behaviour, including hoax calls and the misuse of fireworks to attack emergency workers and their vehicles – actions that have serious repercussions and divert vital resources from those in genuine need.
Chief Inspector Martyn Holt of Lancashire Police emphasised the zero-tolerance approach that will be taken towards anti-social behaviour, assuring the communities of East Lancashire that those involved in such activities will face serious consequences. He said, “Bonfire Night should be a time for safe celebration, not disruption. We want everyone to be able to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night, but we are urging our communities to act responsibly.
“We will be working closely alongside our partners to prevent fireworks-related disorder and anti-social behaviour. There will be increased patrols across anti-social behaviour hotspot areas and any of this kind of activity will not be tolerated. We will take firm action against anyone engaging in it.
“Fireworks are not toys; they are dangerous explosives. One night of carelessness with a firework could lead to devastating consequences – both for the victims and for the individuals responsible. We would like to ask all parents to think about their children and their whereabouts in the coming weeks, to be aware of what they are doing and who with.”
Jonny Ashton, Community Protection Manager at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said:
“Each year around Bonfire Night we see a spike in deliberate fires and dangerous behaviour involving fireworks and refuse. Our crews work tirelessly alongside police and ambulance colleagues to keep people safe, but we need our communities to play their part too - by disposing of rubbish responsibly, attending organised events, and treating emergency service workers with respect. Together we can make sure Bonfire Night remains a night to enjoy, not regret.”
Jason Eddings, NWAS Group Manager, says, “Bonfire Night is one of the busiest times of the year for our crews. Every unnecessary call can delay help for someone in a life-threatening situation. We’re asking everyone to celebrate responsibly, avoid dangerous behaviour, and only call 999 in genuine emergencies. By working together, we can keep our communities safe and ensure our resources are available for those who need them most.”
If anyone is concerned for their safety or has witnessed anti-social or criminal behaviour, then please contact the police using 999 if it is an emergency, 101 or online Lancashire.police.uk/reportonline
Demand on emergency services rises significantly over the Bonfire period. To help us keep our lines free for those who need us most, please ensure you’re contacting the most relevant agency and using the most appropriate means of contact.
You can also report anti-social behaviour online to your local council, or anonymously via independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.