North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is appealing to young people to avoid serious injury or even death from playing with fireworks and lighting bonfires during half-tern holidays.

With a week to go before bonfire night the fire and rescue service is urging the public of North Wales to be vigilant with fireworks and to attend an organised display.

Terry Williams, Head of Community Fire Safety, said: "Safety at this time of year is the responsibility of us all. We cannot over emphasise that the best way to reduce the number of injuries during bonfire celebrations is by attending organised events. They are the safest type of displays, have the best facilities and offer the best value for money. Bonfire celebrations see an increase in anxiety for senior citizens and pet owners, so attending community events helps reduce this distress.

"If you must use fireworks yourself, please follow the fireworks safety code.

The Firework Safety Code

- Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.

- Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

- Keep fireworks in a closed box.

- Follow the instructions on each firework.

- Light at arm's length, using a taper.

- Stand well back.

- Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode.

- Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.

- Always supervise children around fireworks.

- Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.

- Never give sparkles to a child under five.

- Keep pets indoors.

"If you are planning a bonfire, please notify North Wales Fire and Rescue Service's Control Room by calling 01745 535 805."

Inspector Julie Sheard said: "We know the majority of people enjoy this time of year sensibly and we are not out to spoil their fun but unfortunately there is a minority who are intent on causing problems and use Bonfire Night as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially.

"We will be working in partnership with other agencies to keep people safe and make sure an exciting and enjoyable period is not tarnished by the minority. To ensure the safety of all, we would also encourage residents to attend organised firework displays, which will be well publicised in the local press prior to November 5^th."

Community Bonfire and Firework events in your area:

Mold - 5th November 7pm at Mold Alex Football Club

Denbigh - 5th November 6 - 7.30pm

Barmouth - 2nd November 6.30pm by the harbour on the beach

Aberdyfi - 2nd November 6.30pm on the beach behind the fire station

Rhyl - 5th November 7.30pm Showfield, Rhuddlan Road, Rhyl

Beaumaris - 2nd November 6.30pm on the sea front by the pier.

Henllan - 5th November 5.30pm at Garn Park

Llanfaes - 5th November at the Community Centre

Llandudno - 5th November at the Cricket Club

Glan Conwy - 5th November 5.30pm at Cae Ffwt

Betws y Coed - 9th November 4pm at Cae Llan

Eglwys Bach - 5th November 7pm Ysgol Eglwys Bach

Llanfwrog - 9th November 6.30pm at the Community Centre

Rhyl - 2nd November 7pm at Ty Newydd Church

Llanberis - 5th November at the Community Centre

Blaenau Ffestiniog - 5th November 7pm

Acrefair - 5th November on the Plas Madoc Estate

Rossett - 25th October 7pm at Coxwood, Rossett

Rhos - 3rd November at Rhos Rugby Club

Deeside - 5^th November 7.30pm at Deeside Leisure Centre

Dolgellau - 2nd November 6.0pm at the Marian Playing Fields