With the Swanage council recycling centre closed, good weather on the way for the weekend and residents mainly restricted to their homes, Dorset Council is appealing to gardeners not to annoy their neighbours by lighting bonfires.
In a statement it said:
“Bonfires can upset neighbours and cause breathing problems for those with underlying medical conditions or suffering from the virus. Also, bonfires can get out of control quickly.
“If you want to burn garden waste, try to let neighbours know (pop a note through the door) and pick a quiet time of day when other people are less likely to be outside.”
Dorset Council advice
The council has issued this advice for anyone who does decide to have a bonfire:
- Site any bonfire well away from buildings, fences, trees and garden structures
- Have a garden hose to hand in case the fire starts to get out of control
- Don’t light a bonfire if it’s windy, as it could flare up more than you expect
- If you’re planning a substantial bonfire, stay with it at all times to ensure that it remains safe
- Never use flammable liquids such as petrol or paraffin to start a bonfire
It added that Dorset Council environmental health officers for Purbeck are contactable by email or telephone.
The statement went on to warn residents not to inflame the current situation:
“Please consider that what you are doing may cause distress or upset. Everyone is in the main, confined to their homes and this can cause stress, anguish and frustration.”
