As Bonfire Night approaches, Hull City Council is working in partnership with Humberside Fire and Rescue to remind residents to take extra precautions to keep their bins safe from theft and arson.
The increased activity around November fifth can unfortunately lead to higher risk for unattended bins.
To highlight the dangers, Hull City Council, in partnership with Humberside Fire and Rescue, are placing yellow tags on bins that are a potential risk.
The tags will provide information on how to protect bins, as well as contact details for those with concerns about arson and antisocial behaviour.
To help prevent theft and arson attacks, where possible, residents should:
- Store bins safely within the boundary of their properties, especially at night
- Avoid blocking doorways and placing bins under windows
- Bins should be stored securely behind locked gates, where possible
- Put bins out at 7am on collection days and return them as soon as possible
- Avoid overfilling bins and leaving loose bagged rubbish around them.
- Never put hot ashes, smoking materials, or batteries in your bin
To report a missed bin collection, visit Missed bin collection | Hull.
Further, Items such as beds, mattresses, wardrobes, tables and chairs should not be left at the front of properties, as they can also present a potential fire risk. To arrange a bulky item collection, visit Bulky collections | Hull or call 01482 300300.
Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night safely. Unfortunately, at this time of year, wheelie bins can become targets for theft, arson and other antisocial behaviour if they are left unattended.
“Where possible, residents should put their bins out at 7am on collection day, bring their bins back in promptly and store them securely within their property boundary. These small actions can help protect homes, prevent fires and reduce disruption in our communities.
“Working alongside Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, we’re reminding residents to stay vigilant and follow this advice so that everyone can enjoy a safe and enjoyable Bonfire Night.”
The council, and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, also urge residents to stay safe when using fireworks.
Firework safety tips:
- Buy fireworks with the UKCA mark from reputable sellers.
- Keep fireworks stored in a closed box.
- Follow the instructions on each firework carefully.
- Always light fireworks at arm’s length and stand well back.
- Never go back to a lit firework.
- Never throw fireworks.
- Remember, it is illegal to set off fireworks in public streets or places.
- For your pets’ wellbeing, keep them indoors during firework displays.
Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Prevention at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night safely. Simple actions can make a real difference in reducing the risk of fire. Keeping bins and other combustible items secure and away from homes, doors and windows helps remove opportunities for deliberate fires and protects people, property and our communities.
“If you are celebrating with fireworks, please plan ahead, follow the safety guidance and look out for those around you. By taking a few sensible precautions, we can all help make Bonfire Night a safe and enjoyable occasion.”
If you know any information about deliberate fires, you can report it anonymously to Arson Alert on Humberside Fire and Rescue Service’s webpage: Arson Alert Form | Humberside Fire
For further information on how to stay safe, see Bonfire night safety | Humberside Fire