WHAT IS IT'?

A voluntary Code of Practice drawn up by past entrants in the Edenbridge Bonfire Procession. The aim is to provide assistance to future participants and to ensure that the event continues to provide enjoyment to all by maintaining minimum standards of construction, organisation and safety. THESE ARE SUGGESTIONS ONLY AND THE RESPONSIBILITY IS STILL YOURS!!

WHY HAVE ONE?

We have a procession through the Town every year by the light of hand held torches in front of an audience of thousands of people. The several hundred participants are in fancy dress of all sorts, with many riding on decorated floats. We all know that costumes and floats are made on a shoestring in a short period of time, similarly, that the purpose of the event is for everyone to have a great time. There are obviously some very real risks, to participants, public and adjoining property too, including:

Fire
Electric shock
Collision
All forms of personal injury

HERE, THEN ARE SOME GENERAL RULES:

Between the float builders themselves and the Edenbridge Bonfire Society, these have been ranked as either 'ESSENTIAL' 'RECOMMENDED', OR A 'GOOD IDEA'.

SOME NOTES FOR FLOAT DESIGNERS:

ESSENTIAL:

Limit the height and width to take account of the banners over the street and the narrow passage past pubs and Town Bridge.

GOOD IDEA:

Don't over-fill your float with people! It can restrict safe escape.

RECOMMENDED:

Allocate space and people for the tasks of FLOAT STEWARDS.
(Children need supervisors, others have used a rule of one ADULT for every 12 children under 13 or one ADULT for every 6 pre-school children).

RECOMMENDED:

Design in two evacuation routes, preferably at opposing corners of the float.

GOOD IDEA:

Provide seats for all children under 11.

RECOMMENDED:

Have sturdy handrails around the float, designed to suit the height of those who are on it and whether they are sitting or standing.