An analysis of bonfire and firework-related fire incidences

This study examines fire incidents attended by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service during the Bonfire Night period, 5th November (2015–2024), analysing the circumstances, patterns, and trends of such incidents. In particular, anti-social behaviour fires, deliberate property fires, firework incidents, and violence at work incidents were examined. Anti-social behaviour fires declined from 2016, firework incidents from 2019, and violence at work incidents from 2018, but all subsequently increased in 2024. Deliberate property fires also declined from 2016 onwards. Statistically significant increases occurred on 5th November for firework incidents, 5th and 6th November for anti-social behaviour fires, and 30th October and 5th November for deliberate property fires and violence at work incidents. There was a strong link between the level of deprivation and the number of anti-social behaviour, deliberate property fires, firework incidents, and violence at work incidents over the period studied.