London Fire Brigade is encouraging Londoners not to celebrate fireworks season at home this weekend following a record-breaking Bonfire Night for Control Officers.
Control Officers took 832 emergency calls on 5 November, the highest figure on Bonfire Night since 2016 and one more call than in 2025.
Some of the calls taken by the Brigade included:
- Boxes of fireworks alight in Tufnell Park, Bartlett Park, Camberwell Green and Rainham
- Reports of fireworks being held or misused in Rotherhithe and Lewisham
- Grass or trees set alight by fireworks in Islington, Battersea and White City
- Unattended or out of control bonfires in Lambeth, Barking, Rotherhithe, Mitcham, Kidbrooke, Feltham, Sutton, Uxbridge, Belvedere and Enfield
With celebrations of Bonfire Night and Diwali expected to continue into the weekend, the Brigade is asking Londoners not to light fireworks or bonfires at home.
Assistant Commissioner Pamela Oparaocha said: “On Bonfire Night, our Control Officers and firefighters worked exceptionally hard, handling a high number of calls and responding to emergency calls across the capital.
“In anticipation of a busy weekend of celebrations, we’re asking Londoners to help us utilise our resources wisely – don’t host your own fireworks or bonfires, attend an organised display nearby. They’re far safer, cheaper and often much more impressive.
“If you do choose to host your own fireworks display, make sure are buying safe fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller with a CE safety mark. Secure them properly in the ground, and keep them far away from buildings, trees, animals and people.
“Always follow the Fireworks Code and remember there are strict laws around when you can purchase and use fireworks.
“Disposing of fireworks safely is just as important as using them correctly. Allow fireworks to cool properly before throwing them away.
"We’re also urging people to consider if their bonfire is necessary and to take care if you’re burning waste at home.
"If you are going to light a bonfire, never leave it unattended and consider your neighbours when you do decide to have a fire in your garden.
“Build it well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges and never use flammable liquids to start it. Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of fire.
“Rest assured, if something does go wrong, we’re here to help, and we hope everyone enjoys a safe weekend.”
Ahead of Diwali, the Brigade is also reminding Londoners to take extra care with candles and diyas. Consider using battery-powered, flameless LED candles instead, which are safe even if you fall asleep.
- Never leave candles, incense sticks and oil burners unattended.
- Make sure you put them out when you leave the room and especially before bed.
- Keep them in heat-resistant holders placed on a stable surface.
- Don't put them close to anything that can catch fire, such as decorations, curtains, papers, furniture, and clothes.
- To avoid accidents keep candles and all naked flames (including matches and lighters) out of the reach of children and pets.
- Tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.