ST JOHN Ambulance is reminding people to ‘remember remember first aid in November’ when they are holding bonfire and fireworks celebrations or when they are attending organised displays.
The organisation is urging people to learn some basic first aid skills ahead of the annual event.
Volunteers from the nation’s biggest first aid charity will be attending firework events across Worcestershire so anyone who needs treatment gets it.
But, bosses at the charity say, injuries are much more likely to occur at private parties, where trained volunteers won’t be on hand to help.
Every year, around 1,000 people visit A&E for treatment of a firework-related injury in the four weeks around November 5. But with some basic first aid skills, everyone can be prepared to help in a firework first aid emergency.
The most common injuries are burns from fireworks, sparklers and debris, along with smoke inhalation – fast action can help prevent any long-term damage.
Burns or scalds should be put under cold water for at least ten minutes – completely cooling the skin will prevent scarring or further damage
If the burn is on a child, or if it is a serious burn (for example, deep, larger than the size of a hand, or on the face, hands or feet) call 999 or 112 for an ambulance.
Jewellery or clothing near the burn should be removed unless it is stuck to the burn.
Blisters should not be ‘popped’ and ice cream or gel should not be applied as this can make it worse.
Once cooled, cover with cling film or a plastic bag.
If necessary, patients should be treated for shock by laying them down with their legs raised and supported above the level of their heart.
For debris in the eye, the patient should be told not to rub it as that can make it worse. Clean cold water should be poured over the eye to wash out whatever is stuck in there and to cool any burn.
If this fails to work, lift the debris out with a damp corner of a clean tissue
If this doesn’t work either, don’t touch anything that’s stuck in their eye – cover it with a clean dressing or non-fluffy material and take them straight to hospital.
For smoke inhalation, move them away from the smoke so they can breathe in fresh air, sit them down in a comfortable position and loosen any tight clothing.
If they don’t recover quickly, call 999/112 for an ambulance.
The charity’s regional director, Steve Hargreaves said: “St John Ambulance is keen that people enjoy Bonfire Night but don’t end their celebrations in hospital. “Fireworks and bonfires can provide fun and entertainment for families at a time of year when the evenings are rather dark and gloomy.
“They literally light up the sky.
“Our volunteers will be on hand to provide expert first aid assistance at public displays across the region but if you are organising a private event, you need to know what to do if there is a first aid emergency.
For more information on St John Ambulance’s work, including how to become a volunteer and details of training for the public, schools and businesses, visit www.sja.org.uk or call 08700 10 49 50.
4th Jun, 2026
