KEIGHLEY people are being urged to do their bit to help keep the district safe in the run-up to the bonfire season.

The public is being asked to report any potentially-dangerous Bonfire Night stacks.

And householders and businesses are encouraged to remove any accumulations of rubbish close to their premises which may be targeted by arsonists.

Bradford Council is working with the emergency services and social landlord Incommunities in a bid to prevent problems which can arise during the bonfire season.

A warning has also been issued that anyone seeking to take advantage of the time of year by transporting and illegally dumping waste will face prosecution and could have their vehicle seized.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the council’s executive member for healthy people and places, said: “Bonfire celebrations do not provide people with an excuse to get rid of a load of rubbish on the cheap.

“Our wardens and enforcement officers will be on their guard, looking out for fly-tipping and cracking down on culprits.

“Dumping rubbish on bonfires is fly-tipping. It is not solving a problem, it is making it worse.

“Fly-tipped rubbish not only looks a mess but can be highly dangerous if someone sets it on fire.

“We hope people will enjoy their bonfire celebrations but we urge everyone to behave responsibly.”

Fire chiefs say people should take measures to help prevent them becoming a victim of arsonists.

Bradford district fire service commander Benjy Bush said: “In the run-up to the bonfire season we urge people to do their bit to help us by ensuring that litter is not left to build-up around homes or businesses, as this can be a target for arson.”

Police warn that anyone starting fires which pose a danger to others will be prosecuted, and action will be taken against people misusing fireworks.

District commander, Chief Superintendent Osman Khan, said: “We want everyone in the district to enjoy their Bonfire Night celebrations in safety, and anyone found to be setting fires which cause a threat to others can expect to be prosecuted.

“The reckless and dangerous use of fireworks will also not be tolerated and we will work with partners to identify those involved and take appropriate action against them.”

Incommunities encourages people to attend properly-organised bonfires and fireworks displays.

Anyone concerned that a bonfire is unsafe, or who witnesses fly-tipping, can report it to the council on 01274 431000 or online at bradford.gov.uk. People are asked to note as many details as possible, including in the case of fly-tipping, registration numbers.