FAMILIES looking to celebrate Halloween and bonfire night are being urged to do the right thing to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The call comes from Cheshire police and fire service chiefs and Cheshire East’s public health director in the wake of a sharp rise in Covid-19 infection rates in the area.

Cheshire East has been placed in High Alert level restrictions; people must not mix indoors with any other household and the rule of six must be adhered to when meeting up with others outdoors, keeping your distance – two metres is best.

This means many bonfire and Halloween events cannot go ahead as planned.

Dr Matt Tyrer, director of public health for Cheshire East Council said: “The virus can’t spread if people do the right thing and don’t get close together.

“If you are celebrating inside only mix with your own household, wash your hands frequently and wear a face covering where appropriate when outside.

“If you are celebrating Halloween with little ones, who will be wearing costumes, keep them away from candles or lit pumpkins.

“Avoid any nasty burns and injuries by using battery-powered candles and tea-lights instead.”

Cheshire East Council is working with Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to ensure residents enjoy Halloween and bonfire night safely within the law.

Supt Jo Marshall-Bell from Cheshire Police said: “It has been a tough year for many, and we recognise seasonal festivities are really important for mental health and wellbeing.

“We want you to have fun this Halloween and bonfire night but to do so safely within the law, and bearing in mind the situation with the pandemic.

“Now more than ever we need to pull together to help slow the spread of the virus, while celebrating Halloween a little differently.

“I’m confident most residents will stick to the rules and do all they can to celebrate Halloween safely, but there will be an increased officer presence across the county to provide reassurance for anyone who may have any concerns over the Halloween and bonfire period.”

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service deliberate fire reduction lead, Andy Gray, said: “Our priority is public safety, and with organised displays cancelled this year we are concerned people will turn to lighting fires and setting fireworks off.

“Please do not be tempted to do so. Any fire can easily get out of hand and spread to fences, sheds and properties and could cause fatal or life-changing injuries, while putting extra strain on emergency services and the NHS.”