Like all traditions, having a bonfire party on November 5 is a fun event. Watching the flames licking at an effigy of traitor Guy Fawkes burn in commemoration of the foiled Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when conspirator Fawkes was caught before he could blow up London's Houses of Parliament, is a colourful spectacle, but as with anything to do with fires, 'Safety First' is the watchword.

The following tips will ensure that your event is a happy occasion, and not a tragic one.

1. Build your bonfire in an open space and well away from houses, garden sheds, trees, hedges, wooden fences and anything else which is combustible. Also ensure that you do not endanger neighbouring properties. Be considerate: use only dry wood and other dried garden vegetation for the bonfire. Wet materials will cause heavy smoke and upset the neighbours, particularly those with allergy or respiratory ailments.

2. Do not put dangerous items on the fire, such as aerosol and paint cans.

3. Before lighting the fire, check to see that no animals are in its immediate vicinity.

4. Use only matches or domestic fire lighters to light the fire. Never, ever use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquids to either start the fire, or throw it on a lit fire to accelerate burning.

5. Stand well back from the fire and keep children under control at all times. Also ensure that children understand the dangers of fire, and don't let them run up close to the flames or throw things at the fire.

6. Keep a connected water hose or buckets of water handy for emergencies.

7. Inform the Bermuda Fire Service (292-5555) ahead of time of the address where you are holding your bonfire. This prevents firefighters being sent out on false reports of a fire by those not in the know. Also inform the Service when the bonfire is over.

8. Before leaving the site of the bonfire, make sure the fire is fully out and the surrounding area is safe.