Council issues bonfire night safety advice

WITH Saint John's Eve almost here, Mayo County Council has reminded people lighting bonfires tomorrow (Tuesday) to be mindful of their safety and responsibilities.

The council is advising the public that the lighting of bonfires should be undertaken with great care. The authority does not wish to break any traditions steeped in our history and culture but must advise the public of the dangers of large bonfires on this night.

Traditional bonfires on Bonfire Night only burned untreated wood waste. The public are reminded that the burning of all waste, including the burning of tyres, is illegal under the Waste Management Act. Also, the Air Pollution Act obliges everybody not to cause or allow emissions in such a quantity as to be a nuisance or cause air pollution.

The advice is to think before you light a bonfire this year and remember not to burn tyres, waste or any other dangerous materials. Please also do not use any flammable materials to light bonfires, especially petrol or diesel, as these are extremely combustible.

The council's message is: Enjoy the night and please stay safe.