Bradford City players have partnered with the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) in a compelling initiative in anticipation of Bonfire Night. Their collective message is clear: “Protect yourself from enduring lasting harm.”
The collaboration between WYFRS, Bradford City FC Community Foundation, and Bradford City AFC has resulted in the creation of a video dedicated to promoting fire and firework safety during the Bonfire Night festivities. This informative video stars BCAFC players such as Harry Lewis, Sam Stubbs, Daniel Oyegoke, Jonathan Tomkinson, and club captain Richie Smallwood.
The primary objective of this initiative is to educate young individuals about the potential risks associated with fire and fireworks. To ensure maximum outreach, the video featuring the players will be screened in schools located in areas of Bradford with higher incidents of fire-related crimes and antisocial behavior.
Ian Ormondroyd, the CEO of the Bradford City FC Community Foundation, expressed his satisfaction with the collaborative effort, stating, “I am pleased that the foundation and the club, through the players, can raise awareness about Bonfire Night issues in Bradford. I extend my gratitude to WYFRS for their valuable support and guidance as we collectively strive to make Bradford a safer city in the lead-up to November 5.”
The video also incorporates disconcerting statistics concerning the substantial number of antisocial behavior incidents associated with fire and fireworks during the Bonfire season in Bradford. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has had to respond to hundreds of incidents in the region annually. Shockingly, over the past five years, their responders have faced attacks on 72 occasions, with 46 of these assaults taking place within the Bradford district.
In 2022, 37 percent of the incidents attended by WYFRS resulted in injuries, highlighting the severity of the issue. The video concludes with the players reiterating WYFRS’ critical fire safety message: “Do not subject yourself to lifelong scars.”
WYFRS also underscores other essential messages, emphasizing the significance of attending organized Bonfire Night events, celebrating safely when hosting one’s own event, and adhering to their bonfire safety guidelines.
Benjy Bush, Bradford District Commander, expressed his gratitude to the Bradford City FC Community Foundation and the football club for their role in disseminating the Bonfire campaign message, “Do not subject yourself to lifelong scars,” and reaching a broader audience. He highlighted the urgency of the issue, with WYFRS having responded to 427 bonfire-related incidents the previous year.
The focus remains on minimizing this number. While they encourage celebration, safety is paramount. Whether attending an organized event or hosting a private bonfire at home, individuals are encouraged to follow the safety recommendations provided on their website.
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