Family of Burnley girl left in critical condition after being hit by a firework support bonfire night safety campaign

The family of a young girl who was left on a life support machine after being hit by a firework in Burnley last year have backed calls from the emergency services in Lancashire to stay safe this Bonfire Night.

The young girl, who was just four years old at the time, was in hospital in a critical condition after being hit by a firework on Elm Street on the evening of Wednesday, November 5,2025.

Her mother said: “The day of the incident, my daughter was so excited to go and see fireworks for the first time with her father.

“We never imagined the day would end in a horrific accident. My daughter was badly injured and had to be put on a life support machine for a number of days. Some of her injuries were deep and severe.

“Myself and my husband stayed at her bedside throughout the period she was in hospital, relying on family to take care of our other two children. To this day, our daughter is so frightened by the sound of fireworks. She has ongoing checkups at the hospital and has to wear extra support clothes provided by the hospital.

“To all the people who enjoy fireworks and want to set off fireworks, I’ve got a simple message to you. Always be aware of your surroundings and only let off fireworks if you are supported by professionals. Whilst you might not set out to hurt others, that can be the consequence of your reckless actions.”

Following the incident, 18 young people were brought into police stations and received community resolutions.

Lancashire Police and our partners are now urging people to make sure they enjoy festivities safely and responsibly. We are once again working closely with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, North West Ambulance Service (NWAS), and local authority partners, in a local safety campaign aimed at curbing anti-social behaviour ahead of Bonfire Night.

Local policing teams and partner agencies have been visiting schools across East Lancashire, with the aim to educate young people of the risks and law when it comes to fireworks.

The sessions also highlight the impact that hoax calls and instances of targeting emergency service vehicles and workers can have, through diverting vital medical attention away from those who desperately need it.

Chief Inspector Patrick Worden of Lancashire Police said: “We absolutely do not want to see another innocent person injured by fireworks, especially our young children and their families who will be trying to enjoy festivities in a safe and responsible manner.

“I want to reassure you that we will take appropriate action against those who do not behave in the same way. We have a robust, tried and tested plan in place alongside our partner agencies to tackle anti-social behaviour, following a number of successful years of working together over this period.

“To anyone who might be planning to engage in anti-social activities, this is a warning that we will not hesitate to put you before the courts.

“Fireworks can be incredibly dangerous and we have had several incidents in the past across East Lancashire that show the devastating impact they can have when they’re in the wrong hands. They could cost someone their life, and impact you for the rest of yours.”

Lancashire Police, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and NWAS will be working closely together over the Bonfire Night period, responding to any emergencies and keeping our local communities safe. Multi-agency incident assessment team (MAIAT) vehicles will also be deployed, with colleagues from both Lancashire Police and Lancashire Fire are Rescue Service onboard, to respond to incidents and deliver a teamed-up approach.

Dan Proctor, Station Manager at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Lancashire Fire and Rescue staff have been engaging with communities in the weeks leading up to Bonfire night and the weekend beyond.

“The message is clear; please where possible avoid organising bonfires and firework displays at home. There are plenty of organised events available for everyone to attend. This ensures the greatest degree of safety to our community. If fireworks are purchased, ensure these are from reputable sellers, and used safely and in accordance with guidance.

“Waste being burned off in the streets or in gardens is a common problem over this period. Please avoid this and dispose of waste appropriately and responsibly.

“These small fires tend to become out of control, causing injuries and damage to property. It’s important to remember that our crews are in your communities to help you and your family and friends 24/7 for so many different types of emergencies.

“Any nuisance fires and hoax calls take us away from being able to help you and your loved ones. These instances will be addressed as a criminal issue.”

NWAS Group Manager for East Lancashire, Jason Eddings says; “Bonfire Night should be a time for people to enjoy themselves and make happy memories with family and friends, but sadly we know all too well that fireworks can cause serious injuries when they aren’t used safely.

“Our ambulance crews see first-hand how quickly an accident can become an emergency. We’d ask everyone celebrating this Bonfire Night to have fun, but also to take care, look out for those around them and follow the safety advice.”

If anyone is concerned for their safety or has witnessed anti-social or criminal behaviour, then please contact the police using 999 if it is an emergency, 101 or online: Lancashire.police.uk/reportonline online at crimestoppers-uk.org.