Firefighters responding to an increased number of incidents across Greater Manchester were subjected to a series of attacks.
Crews experienced serious incidents across the city-region, including having fireworks and other objects aimed at them while responding to emergencies. In one incident, a firefighter was struck by a brick, and fire appliances were also damaged.
The incidents formed part of what remains one of the busiest periods of the year for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), with firefighters responding to increased demand.
On Bonfire Night itself, GMFRS Protection officers worked with Greater Manchester Police, resulting in the seizure of a large quantity of fireworks stored within six vehicles in a public car park.
Initial data shows there was a 23 per cent (341) increase in calls received by North West Fire Control (NWFC) between October 31 and November 5. This resulted in GMFRS crews attending 113 (15 per cent) more incidents across the city region.
This includes 54 more incidents on Bonfire Night, from 274 in 2025 to 328 in 2026, an increase of 20 per cent.
The period remains the busiest time in the year for GMFRS, with its ‘Bang Out Of Order’ campaign highlighting the consequences of attacks on emergency service workers and other antisocial behaviour, and how the public can report it, while giving residents tips and advice for how to enjoy a safe Halloween and Bonfire Night.
Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green, joined crews during this period to see the effect the period has on firefighters.
She said: “Bonfire Night is one of the busiest nights of the year for our firefighters, and I saw firsthand the incredible work our crews do to keep people safe.
“We can all play our part by enjoying the celebrations responsibly and making sure our firefighters are not targeted and are safe to respond to people who genuinely need them.
“That work starts long before Bonfire Night, with our teams delivering safety advice in schools and communities and inspecting retailers to make sure fireworks are stored and sold safely.”
Dave Russel, GMFRS’s Chief Fire Officer, said: “Our firefighters work tirelessly to keep communities safe during what is traditionally one of the busiest nights of the year.
“It is completely unacceptable that, while responding to emergencies, some of our crews were subjected to attacks while carrying out their duties.
“Such behaviour not only puts emergency service personnel at risk of injury but is a huge risk to others, and can also affect our ability to respond to incidents when and where communities need us most.
“While the vast majority of people enjoyed Bonfire Night safely and responsibly, we continue to urge residents to celebrate safely, attend organised displays where possible, and remember that attacks on firefighters and other emergency service workers will never be tolerated.”
