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Councils issued personal injury disclaimers

Local councils across the UK issued bonfire night personal injury disclaimers last week, saying that people attending events were doing so at their own risk.

People getting too close to fireworks, using fireworks and not following safety instructions have led to personal injury compensation claims in the past.

Councils now have the foresight to issue disclaimers and warn members of the public who wish to watch fireworks or a bonfire display that it is entirely their responsibility. They must also properly instruct their children.

For people enjoying their own private bonfire displays at home, insurance companies urged home-owners to take out insurance to avoid injuries, expensive repair bills for fires or displays which had gone out of control.

Almost 1,000 people were treated for firework-related personal injuries last year, according to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. While 120 were at public displays, most happened at private parties with rockets and sparklers.

"Personal safety and damage to property are clearly major issues for homeowners hosting parties on bonfire night," warns Martin Scott of Churchill.

"Observing a few safety precautions, the risk can be significantly reduced."