Ultimately, the two main features of Bonfire Night – bonfire and fireworks – aren’t environmentally friendly. Burning wood causes the carbon the tree has absorbed and stored over its lifetime to be released. Fires also releases tiny particles of soot which contributes to air pollution, a problem that already causes the death of over 260 people in Bristol a year, according to The Guardian. We also need to consider what is being burnt, as wood that has any varnish or paint on it will release chemicals into the air.  Instead of having your own fire at home, one way to help would be to go along to an organized event and enjoy theirs instead. This would mean less carbon and soot released and save you some tidying up! 

At this time of year, hedgehogs will be looking for places to start hibernating. That’s why it's important that any woodpile being used for a bonfire is built the same day it is due to be burnt, as otherwise local wildlife may find the pile and use it as a cozy spot to shelter. Therefore, bonfires should always be checked before they’re lit, to make sure nothing is curled up inside. The British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) recommends re-siting the entire pile before lighting if possible, or if not, then you can use broom handles to lift from the base of the pile and shine torches, making sure to look and listen for any signs of life.

If you do find a hedgehog in an unlit bonfire wood pile, the BHPS advice is to:

• Gather it up with as much of the nest as possible, then place it in a high-sided carboard box with plenty of torn newspaper, towelling or straw. Ensure there are air holes in the lid and that the lid is firmly secured, as hedgehogs are great climbers!
• Use gardening gloves or a folded towel to handle them. This helps keep them calm, avoid spreading our scent onto them and protects your hands from their spikes.
• Put the box somewhere safe and quiet, such as a shed or garage, well away from the festivities. Offer the hedgehog some meaty cat or dog food and water.
• Once the embers are totally dampened down, release the hedgehog under a hedge, bush or behind a stack of logs near where it was found, with its original nesting materials and some more food and water.

After the bonfire has burnt out, there is still more you can do to help. Unfortunately, Bonfire Night usually leaves a lot of litter in its wake. Plastic tubes, discarded sparklers and other bits of rubbish litter our streets, green spaces and parks. Perhaps you could organise a litter pick with your friends or community to do a tidy up?

Whatever you get up to this Bonfire night, enjoy yourself, be safe, look after each other and all our furred and feathered friends!