Burning issue

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Oct 29, 2008

Byline: By SOPHIE DOUGHTY

THESE gruesome makeovers show how fireworks and bonfires can wreck lives forever.

Expert make-up artists have given models an unwelcome new look as part of a campaign to encourage people to stay safe this November 5.

Complete with realistic looking fake burns and scars, the models gave shoppers in Newcastle city centre something to think about when they handed out safety leaflets on Northumberland Street, earlier this week.

And the shocking stunt will be repeated on Saturday, when the group returns to target weekend shoppers in time for Bonfire Night.

The publicity is part of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service's safety campaign, Fireworks and Bonfires Ruin Lives in a Flash and has been timed to coincide with half-term.

It aims to show the public the types of injuries they can be left with if fireworks and bonfires are not handled responsibly.

Assistant fire officer, Dave Simpson, said: "Most people know about the dangers of bonfires and fireworks but we're hoping these models will create a real stir and a talking point for shoppers and the young people who will be in town during half-term.

"While the injuries and scars are only make-up they are very realistic and we want to prevent anyone else from being injured or even killed as a result of the misuse of fireworks."

And a spokesman for Northumbria Police, which is backing the campaign, added: "Injuries caused by fireworks can be very painful and disfiguring.

"The purpose of using models made-up to look as if they have been injured really brings the message home."

Firefighters are also encouraging people to attend organised fireworks displays instead of building their own bonfires.

The models will be on Northumberland Street this Saturday.

CAPTION(S):

REALISTIC: Nathan Blake Spratt, eight, of Bedlington, takes a close look at the 'burns' on Jeff Pitt's face PICTURE: LEANNE HOLCROFT www.chroniclelive.co.uk/buyaphoto ref: 01373625; SAFETY LESSONS: Left, Summer Lord, 12, and Macaulay Pearson, 12, are made up with fake facial injuries as part of the campaign