MAWWFRS is working in partnership with Dyfed Powys Police, South Wales Police, Local Authorities, and other partner agencies to create a safer environment for everyone during Halloween and Bonfire night, allowing communities to celebrate responsibly and safely. We have some vital safety advice for those that who wish to celebrate.

Halloween safety
For many, especially children and young people, Halloween is an opportunity to wear fancy dress costumes, carve pumpkins, tell scary stories and of course, the annual knocking on doors of people that they know for “treats”, but this celebration can present with potential fire risks.We have highlighted some of the potential dangers and what can be done to reduce the risks, to ensure the community enjoys a safe Halloween.

Do you have a clear escape route in case of a fire?

• Keep exits clear and unobstructed, which is a particular issue during Halloween where items are placed around the house and near to exit points for decoration purposes.Have you considered the dangers associated with fire and Halloween costumes?
• It’s vitally important that costumes carry the ‘CE’ mark on the label. Even so, like all clothing, costumes can easily catch fire.Are your candles putting you at risk?
• Consider candle alternatives, such as flameless battery-operated LED candles that will provide the desired spooky effect. Whilst providing added benefits such as being able to use them outside without being blown out in the wind.

Steven Davies, Head of Community Safety for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue said: “Over the Halloween period the risks associated with fire are heightened. With the use of naked flames in pumpkins, along with the use of costumes that are potentially non-complaint with fire safety regulations, it could be a recipe for disaster. If you are planning on wearing fancy dress this Halloween, please ensure your costume has the ‘CE’ mark. Simple actions can drastically improve the chances of having a safe and happy Halloween, such as using LED candles in your pumpkins and keeping exits clear from Halloween decorations.”

Bonfire Night safety

Bonfire night traditionally has a heavy impact on MAWWFRS and partner agencies. As a result, the Service advises everyone to respect their communities, protect themselves, others, the environment, and emergency services from harm, and enjoy events by following basic safety precautions.Every year, MAWWFRS witness dangerous bonfires being built. These bonfires may include items which are toxic or other items which present a danger to spectators, whether it be risk of explosion or other circumstances. Not only do these bonfires pose a danger to the public, but the environment can be badly affected by poorly built bonfires. Our arson reduction and community safety members will be working with police and local authority colleagues to ensure that communities are kept safe. 

Arson Reduction Manager Scott O’Kelly said: “This time of year can bring fun and entertainment for all the family. It does however have some serious dangers associated with bonfires and the use of fireworks. Traditionally, problems occur with the use of fireworks, especially when they get into the wrong hands. There are simple things that can be done to ensure spectators, and the surrounding environment is kept unharmed and undamaged during bonfire night. Many dangers can be reduced by attending an official organised firework display.  To stay safe and legal this bonfire night, please follow the information provided on our website”.

Fireworks are graded within categories, with differing minimum safety distances, and have specific instructions that should be adhered to in order to ensure that everyone is kept safe.

• Always buy from a reputable retailer and follow individual firework instructions.
• Be sure to store fireworks as per the instructions listed, fireworks should be stored in their original packaging in a dry place away from sources of heat or ignition
• Always store fireworks away from children.MAWWFRS are encouraging the public to celebrate both evenings in the safest way possible. For information on educational material for children regarding staying safe this Halloween and Bonfire night, please visit StayWiseCymru.

The following lesson plans on Halloween / Bonfire safety are also available:

Halloween Safety Lesson Plan | StayWise Cymru
Sbarc’s Staying Safe on Bonfire Night Lesson Plan | StayWise Cymru
Sbarc Staying Safe on Bonfire Night Foundation Phase Lesson Plan | StayWise Cymru
Sbarc Staying Safe on Bonfire Night (ALN) Lesson Plan | StayWise Cymru

Please visit our website for further information on staying safe during the Halloween and Bonfire night period.You can also follow us on our Social Media channels for more #OpBang safety messages:X – @mawwfire
Facebook – @mawwfire
Instagram – mawwfire_rescue

PEMBROKSEHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL’S Cabinet has agreed an additional £1.4m of capital funding, alongside grant funding, to support a Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange.

Subject to confirmation of further funding contributions from Welsh Government, work could start to begin on site next year and be completed in 2026.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council said: “We have been working closely with Welsh Government, Network Rail and the train operating companies for some time now and am delighted to be able to bring these proposals forward.

“This project is important in its own right but it’s also a key enabler for dramaticallyimproving rail connectivity for Milford Haven and Pembrokeshire as a whole.

“A new station will do much more than simply improve the station. It will also allow for more frequent services to and from Milford Haven.

“As well as more frequent services, we are working hard with Welsh and UK Governments as well as Great Western Railways to secure the return of direct, high speed, intercity services to the town and this project includes the realignment of the platform to allow the new Hitachi High Speed Services to serve Milford Haven directly.”

The scheme involves improvement works to the existing Milford Haven train station to create a new public transport interchange by relocating the existing rail platform and providing a dedicated bus interchange between the station and retail area, along with a, taxi rank, formalised car park, public realm spaces and improved Active Travel links.

The scheme will also work in synergy with the Port Authority’s initiatives to improve walking and cycling access to the Milford Haven Dock, further encouraging tourism and urban development and links to the pre-existing retail area within the town.

Local Member and Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services Cllr Rhys Sinnett added: “If this bid is approved by Welsh Government, it will be fantastic news for Milford Haven and go a long way towards increasing and improving transport connectivity both for those visiting the town but more importantly for the residents of the area.

“The associated works with the scheme to enhance safety and parking measures as well as provide a focal point for a public transport interchange with bus services much needed in our town.”

The scheme, if supported by Welsh Government, will be delivered by Pembrokeshire County Council.

A draft design package was developed and submitted to Network Rail in December 2023 with a revised design ready for resubmission.

Cabinet approved the inclusion of the Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange as part of the Local Transport Fund Bids Grant application for 2025/26 for the sum of £6million to continue the development and phased delivery of the project.

Capital funding totalling £1.4million over 2025-26 and 2026-27 has been committed by the Cabinet.

Mid and South Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell said: “It’s fantastic to see changes being made to Milford Haven Train Station. Good public transport and associated facilities are vital to communities in Pembrokeshire. I am pleased to be working alongside the Council and Welsh Government to positively impact Milford Haven.”

HAVERFORDWEST came alive with light and colour on Saturday evening (Oct 26) as the town’s annual Lantern Parade captivated thousands. Organized by SPAN Arts, the event drew a crowd of around 2,000 spectators, all eager to experience the magic of this much-loved community tradition.

Beginning at 5:00pm in St. Thomas’s Square, the procession wound its way through Haverfordwest’s streets, led by an impressive giant illuminated boat lantern. Music from the Samba DOC band created a festive rhythm for the parade, while the local choir, Côr Pawb, filled Castle Square with harmonious choral performances.

The night concluded in spectacular fashion at the Skate Park, where PFS Entertainment UK delivered a high-energy circus-style performance and dazzling fire display. The finale left the crowd exhilarated, bringing a memorable close to the evening’s festivities.

The parade featured approximately 500 lantern bearers, many carrying lanterns crafted during free community workshops held before the event. This collaborative effort highlighted Haverfordwest’s creative spirit, drawing participants and onlookers of all ages in a celebration of unity and artistry.

Thanks to careful planning, the event ran smoothly, with sections of Bush Row, Market Street, and High Street closed to facilitate the parade. SPAN Arts marshals were on hand to ensure safety, helping create a welcoming and well-organized atmosphere.

The Lantern Parade once again proved to be a highlight on the Haverfordwest calendar, shining a light on the community’s talent, creativity, and enduring spirit.

(Image: Lindsey Mac/Haverfordwest Civic Society/Facebook)