The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service fears Halloween and Bonfire Night will be busier-than-usual, and have issued some advice to reduce the risk of incidents.

In a statement issued to the press, the Service said the cancellation of organised events is likely to lead to a greater number casual, garden-based gatherings.

They urge the public to avoid putting additional strain on the service "amidst a global pandemic."

Bonfire Night is the busiest night of the year for the UK Fire Service. Last year, between 23 October and 6 November, the South Wales Service attended 150 deliberate fires.

This year, the Service advises "that residents refrain from having fires in gardens, and be considerate of any neighbours with breathing conditions who may also be self-isolating with symptoms of Covid-19.

"We also do not advise anyone to burn garden or household waste. Please store it for when you can use your local authority waste, recycling and composting services."

Common sense around fireworks is also encouraged. The Service recommends the following:

- Fireworks must comply with regulations.

- Must not be set off by inebriated people.

- Should be chosen based on their quietness.

- Must be kept in a closed box.

- Be lit at arm's length.

- Must not be used by children - Children under five should not be given sparklers. Sparklers should be placed in water after use.

- Should be kept in a closed box.

- Should not be set off late at night.

- Pets should be kept indoors.

Head of Fire Crime and Home Safety, Group Manager Paul Mason said: "This time of year is always fun and we want to make sure that everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely.

"Our message is simple – be sensible and look after yourselves and each other so that you don't require our services during your evening. We attend many unsupervised fires and injuries caused by fireworks and out of control bonfires.

"Fireworks are a lot of fun but it's very important to be cautious and to enjoy the celebrations responsibly. Acting irresponsibly around fires and fireworks can have devastating consequences, can cause life threatening injuries and can even cost lives."

The Service also published a list of advice for Halloween festivities, which can be found here.