FIREFIGHTERS are urging people to show respect to potential dangers as they celebrate Guy Fawkes night.

The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service are preparing to be busier than usual this year with a host of organised displays having to be cancelled because of coronavirus, including the annual King Coel's Kittens extravaganza in Castle Park.

It is anticipated more people will be holding firework displays in their gardens instead.

The fire service's head of prevention Will Newman said: “While most people use fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause serious injury.

"Remember that fireworks are explosives and should be treated with great respect and care.

"We don’t want you to remember November 5 for the wrong reasons and especially this year, we do not want to put extra pressure on the emergency services.

“Fireworks should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the firework code."

Marcus Bailey, chief operating officer, East of England Ambulance Service said: “Celebrating Halloween and Bonfire Night will look different for many people this year, however, our important messages remain and we would ask everyone to enjoy themselves safely, think of others, think hands, face and space in line with Government advice.

“It may not be possible to attend an organised fireworks event this year, so please be extra careful if you choose to have a firework display at home in line with Covid-19 government guidance.

“Be mindful of the cold weather, it’s important to wrap up, especially for the very young or elderly.

“Please stay safe and help keep our staff free to look after those patients who need us most.”