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MOST people realise that smoke from bonfires and fireworks can increase local air pollution.
But have you ever wondered to what extent? Weather conditions around Bonfire Night determine how significant the effects will be and this year, on the evenings of both the 5th and 7th November, levels of particulates (fine dust and smoke) increased by three to four times the usual levels.
Lyn Collins, Ellesmere Port and Neston Borough Council's Divisional Environmental Health Officer, said:
"Luckily, these episodes were short-lived and not high enough to exceed the national 24-hour health standard.
"But it is interesting to note that during the period October 26-November 10, the air was filled with the noise and smoke of fireworks and bonfires. And while this is fun for some, it's not fun for everyone.
"We know, from American research, that between two and 40 household bonfires can release as many toxic fumes as a municipal waste incinerator. With over 85 bonfires locally, that's a lot of pollution, albeit for a very short period.
Lyn added: "These days, fireworks and bonfires are not just restricted to November, so in the run up to Christmas and New Year, we'd just like to remind everyone to be careful and bear the following facts and figures in mind."
Did you know?
During October 26 to November 10, fireworks alone resulted in nearly 1,000 injuries. Alcohol consumption is implicated in many of these cases.
In the week leading up to November 5, the local Fire Service received 85 related calls.
The Government is currently considering a Fireworks Bill, which would mean a ban on firebombs, unless sold in a selection box and banning fireworks after 11pm.
AIR QUALITY - AIR QUALITY WEBSITE -MESSENGER AUTUMN 2003
Over the past few weeks, a petition asking for fireworks to be banned on public sale (except for organised and licensed displays) was started by Cllr Ormerod and Cllr Shephard.
"We're simply against the nuisance value and mis-use of fireworks," explained Cllr Ormerod. "They are very dangerous explosive bits of equipment if they fall into the wrong hands."
MP Andrew Miller will take the petition, which currently has over 3,000 signatures on it, to Downing Street in the New Year.
AIR quality information on Ellesmere Port and Neston Borough Council's website has been judged one of the best in the country by a leading national magazine.
Air Quality Management, a magazine aimed at air quality professionals, reviewed over 500 websites containing air quality information and judged Ellesmere Port and Neston's to be sixth best.
They were impressed with how easy it is to find information about air quality on the council's website and the clarity and quality of the information provided.
Last year air quality information on the council's website won 29th place in the annual survey but recent additions, including real time air quality data, has boosted this rating further.
