Hedgehog Alert: Cornwall Fire Service Shares Crucial Bonfire Safety Advice

As bonfire season approaches, Cornwall Council has issued an important reminder for those planning to light up the night with flames. Before you set your bonfire ablaze, take a moment to check that your wood pile isn’t hosting a secret guest – particularly hedgehogs and other small creatures that may have taken shelter.

Wildlife Safety Comes First

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, along with Prickles and Paws Hedgehog Rescue, is urging residents to ensure their bonfire plans do not put wildlife at risk. The organisations have shared a video highlighting key steps to follow to keep hedgehogs safe during this seasonal activity.

What to Check Before Lighting Up

The advice underlines the need to inspect wood piles thoroughly for any wildlife that may be using them as a temporary home. Hedgehogs, especially, are known to burrow into wood stacks, making an unmonitored bonfire a potential danger for these nocturnal animals.

By following these checks and staying vigilant, residents can enjoy their bonfires while protecting Cornwall’s wildlife.