Gusty gales are the biggest fire safety risk this Guy Fawkes weekend, the Fire Service says.



Fire Safety Officer Clive Hutchings said it was in the areas where the town meets country that the fire services were expecting problems.



"The wind is the biggest factor in creating tinder than anything else," said Hutchings.



"It will dry grasses and trees right out. It won't affect the big fireworks events, but on the urban-rural interface, two to three days of solid wind will dry everything out."



"That means everything is sitting there waiting for a spark."



Hutchings said since the law on the sale of fireworks changed in 2007, there has been a dramatic reduction in emergency calls involving fireworks. The sales period was reduced to four days, the legal purchase age was raised from 14 to 18 and noise levels were limited to 90 decibels.



For those who will be creating their own fireworks display, Hutchings gave his top tips on the safest way to enjoy Guy Fawkes night.



1) Clear the area. Light in a wide open area away from anything that could catch fire.



2) Keep a bucket of water or a hose handy.



3) Read instructions with a torch - not a naked flame.



4) Keep pets out of sound and sight. Make sure pets are inside when fireworks are being set off.



5) If one of your fireworks doesn't go off - douse with water. Never attempt to relight it.



6) Dispose of faulty fireworks safely in a metal, not plastic, bucket. Leave for 24 hours before disposing.



7) Tell your neighbours that you will be setting off fireworks.



8) Never let a child light fireworks.