Wild with Fireworks

The Good Garage Scheme shares this week's tips from IAM Roadsmart's head of driving, Richard Gladman ahead of this weekend's bonfire celebrations.

• Dress for the weather but avoid wearing welly boots for driving
• Have a designated driver if you are planning on drinking
• If travelling together with a noisy group, ensure you are able to maintain concentration
• Protect pets and never leave them in a car near a fireworks display in case they become agitated
• If travelling with fireworks, keep them in a safe container in the boot removing any temptation for passengers to interfere with them when you are driving

Photo courtesy of IAM RoadSmart

Richard said, "Fireworks can be great fun, but they can also bring out the wild side in some people. Keep alert and watch out for unusual behaviour such as kids throwing fireworks into traffic. A bit of planning and a lot of common sense will go a long way into making sure your night goes with a bang and isn’t just a damp squib.”


For more information on IAM RoadSmart, visit the website.

Remember Remember to Drive Safely

Bonfire Night and the days around it will mean there will be more families and young children out and about on the roads in the dark.

Good Garage Scheme Tips for Bonfire Night

1. Check local websites for event information
Find out all you can about your local Bonfire Night celebrations ahead of time. Many organised displays will list times, prices and locations of free car parking facilities on a website.

2. Plan for Local Road Closures
Leave in plenty of time to arrive at your local celebrations so that you don’t miss out on the best places to view the fireworks. Roads closer to the event may be closed, and you may need to park further away from the venue than normal. Don’t forget a torch to guide you through any unlit pathways.

3. Drive Slowly
Young children excited to see fireworks and bonfires may not be used to walking in the dark evenings. Drive slowly and take extra care when driving this weekend to avoid any accidents.

The Good Garage Scheme advises all drivers to take extra care on the roads around the celebrations planned for the 5th of November and be aware of pedestrians going to and from their cars to attend events.

Have a safe and happy Bonfire Night.