CASUALTY staff across East Lancashire are hoping they can further improve on the reduction in bonfire night injuries this year, by giving fire safety tips.

Last year, accident and emergency staff at Blackburn Royal Infirmary and Accrington Victoria Hospital treated the lowest number of firework-related injuries ever. There were eight in Blackburn -- six from bangers, one from a roman candle and one from a rocket and no injuries were recorded in Accrington.

The figures were an improvement on 1999, when the two units reported 19 bonfire night injuries.

They have released guidelines in the hope that more people will act safely on November 5.

They include safety tips for using sparklers, which should not be given to under fives.

Sparklers should only be held when wearing gloves, preferably leather ones, at arm's length.

The guidelines also say you should never hold a sparkler when you are holding a baby.

Pets should be kept inside away from the noise and sounds of fireworks.

Margaret Eastham, health promoting hospitals manager, said: "Bonfire night can be fun and entertaining for families, as long as everyone follows the firework safety guidelines, a good and safe time can be had by all."