Calls for fireworks safety ahead of Guy Fawkes

The Fire Service is hoping to cut down on last year's number of fireworks-related call-outs. Photo / Getty

Fireworks sparked more than 250 emergency service call-outs last year - and it's a figure the Fire Service is hoping to cut down.

National risk reduction manager Rob Saunders said firefighters attended 268 fireworks-related call-outs in 2014.

Some of the incidents - where fires had ignited houses, garages, trees, rubbish and almost a block of shops - could have ended a lot more seriously, he said.

The figures showed a "big drop" from figures about five years ago but more could be done, Mr Saunders said.

"That's a big drop on the 653 fires we had in 2006 - the last year before restrictions on sales took effect - but there are still too many fires and injuries that are entirely preventable," Mr Saunders said.

"We now hover around 300 fireworks-related fires a year, and considering the resulting injuries, disruption and damage, we believe Kiwis can do much better."

The spate of Guy Fawkes incidents diverted firefighters and delayed responses to other incidents - often calling away volunteers from their homes, he said.

"In these cases, fireworks ignited trees or rubbish close to buildings, and one fire even threatened a block of shops. Only a chance passerby prevented a tragedy.

"The best solution is professionally-run public fireworks displays, which are safer for communities as well as being better value for money."

Mr Saunders urged people to follow instructions, keep a bucket of water handy and light fireworks away from anything flammable.

The Fire Service has begun identifying businesses selling fireworks, so firefighters can take extra precautions in case stores catch fire, he said.

Businesses selling fireworks were asked to call 0800 FIRE INFO with relevant details.

Restrictions that took effect before Guy Fawkes 2007 included limiting sales to only four days and selling to people over 18.