With Bonfire Night approaching on Thursday 5 November, people in Stone and the surrounding villages are being reminded to check their bonfires for hedgehogs and other wildlife before lighting them.
Staffordshire County Council has issued the reminder as hedgehogs begin looking for places to shelter and hibernate during the colder months.
Piles of wood, leaves and garden waste can look like ideal places to settle, but animals hiding inside are at serious risk if a bonfire is lit without being checked.
How to make your bonfire safer for wildlife
Anyone planning a garden bonfire is encouraged to take a few simple precautions:
- Build the bonfire on the day it will be lit, rather than leaving it standing for several days.
- Move stored materials to a clear patch of ground before building the fire, checking for animals underneath.
- Check the entire pile carefully with a torch immediately before lighting, paying particular attention to the base and centre.
- Use a broom handle or pole to gently lift sections when checking, rather than a garden fork or spade.
- Light the bonfire from one side only, giving any animals that have been missed a chance to escape.
If a hedgehog is discovered, it should be moved carefully to a safe place away from the bonfire.
The British Hedgehog Preservation Society has further advice on protecting hedgehogs and safely moving any found inside a bonfire pile.
Patrick Allen, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
“Bonfire Night can be a wonderful opportunity for people to come together, but the noise and activity can be frightening and dangerous for wildlife, pets and livestock.
“A few simple steps can make a real difference. Build your bonfire on the day, check it carefully before lighting and think about how fireworks could affect animals and people nearby.”
Think about pets and neighbours too
The council is also encouraging anyone planning fireworks at home to consider the effect on nearby pets, livestock and wildlife.
Residents are advised to let neighbours know in advance when they intend to set off fireworks, giving pet owners time to make arrangements to keep their animals safe indoors.
Choosing quieter fireworks can also help reduce disturbance.
Fireworks must not be set off or thrown in streets, parks or other public places.
There are also restrictions on when fireworks can be used. On most nights, they must not be set off between 11pm and 7am, although the cut-off is extended to midnight on Bonfire Night itself.
Anyone having a home display should buy fireworks from a registered or licensed seller, follow the instructions and safety distances, supervise children using sparklers and keep water nearby.
Spent fireworks should be allowed to cool completely and soaked in water overnight before being disposed of safely.
For further information, visit Stafford Borough Council’s fireworks safety advice.
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