Selby fire chiefs today warned residents not to stage their own bonfire and fireworks party on November 5, for safety reasons.

Colin Hunter, station manager for Selby district, urged people instead to attend the town's showpiece pyrotechnic display on the Scott Road playing field.

Up to 3,000 people are expected to attend the event on November 5.

Mr Hunter said staging domestic bonfires was unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

"We would urge people to go along to the big bonfire in Scott Road," he said.

"It will be easier to police and ensures that everyone stays safe.

"There is always the risk of secondary fires being caused by domestic bonfires.

"They are often too close to hedges and outbuildings. People buying fireworks for the first time also run the risk of not using the firework code correctly and injuring themselves."

Mr Hunter said they would have a fire crew on standby at the Scott Road event to help set up the bonfire and extinguish it.

"We're hoping this event will deter people from having their own bonfire at home," he said.

The bonfire extravaganza will start on the Scott Road field at 6pm, with mayor John Chambers and MP John Grogan lighting the bonfire at 6.30pm

Proceeds will be shared between the Friends Of Selby War Memorial Hospital and the Fire & Rescue Service Cadets.

Mr Hunter said if people insist on holding their own bonfire parties these safety tips should be observed:

Don't build the fire until the last minute to prevent vandals torching it.

Make sure the area is clear of rubbish and bushes so they don't catch fire.

Keep the fire as small as possible and have a garden hose handy

Make sure the fire is completely extinguished.

Follow the instructions on the box containing the fireworks and keep to the strict code.

The Selby bonfire event was cancelled in 2002 when the town mayor, Coun Colin Trevor, was hit in the face by an exploding firework.

He was taken to hospital after the faulty rocket cut his chin and burnt his arm.

Fortunately, he was wearing a helmet with a protective visor.

Updated: 09:45 Saturday, October 29, 2005