Remember, Remember The 5th November

What is Bonfire Night

Guy (Guido) Fawkes led the Gunpowder plot in 1605. It was a plan to blow up King James I and his government. Fawkes and his group put 36 barrels of gunpowder in cellars under the Houses of Parliament in London, ready to set off a massive explosion.

One member of the group sent a letter to his friend who worked in Parliament, warning him to stay away on November 5.The King’s supporters got hold of the letter and
the plot was foiled!

Guards broke into the cellars where the gunpowder plotters were waiting. They were arrested, tortured, and executed.

The group wanted to return England to the Catholic faith. They thought they could do this by killing King James I and his ministers.

Stay safe on Bonfire night

Bonfire night can be quite stressful for the elderly and vulnerable. The sounds and lights can create worry and anxiety. Please take a moment to consider your elderly neighbours or family who may not understand what is happening. Remember that they may
be sensitive and therefore distressed by the commotion.

Try to block out the unexpected noise by recommending ear defenders or earplugs. Maybe you could suggest listening to their favourite music or audio book. Sometimes simply turning the TV up is enough of a distraction.

Ask them if they would like to watch the fireworks, it may just be the unknown that is frightening. If they like to watch fireworks, suggest a local show as they can watch from a distance but remember to wrap up warm.

Make sure curtains and blinds are closed early on in the evening so they don’t become distressed by the flashes from the fireworks.

Have a chat with your neighbours and gently remind them you have an elderly person at home and they may be a little frightened with the noises and flashes.

Fireworks should be enjoyed at a safe distance and adults should deal with firework displays and the lighting of fireworks. They should also take care of the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used.

Here are the 10 rules to follow

1. Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.
2. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
3. Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.
4. Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.
5. Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
6. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
7. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
8. Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
9. Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
10. Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Care Wyvern wishes everyone a fun and safe Bonfire night!