Staffordshire residents are being asked to help protect local wildlife by celebrating Bonfire Night "safely and responsibly".

Staffordshire County Council has urged locals to build bonfires on the day they will be lit, because hedgehogs can use bonfire piles as shelter when they are looking for somewhere to hibernate.

Building a bonfire in advance can give animals time to move in, placing them at serious risk when it is lit.

To help protect wildlife, the county council is encouraging people to:

• build bonfires on the day they will be lit
• move materials to a clear site before building the bonfire
• check carefully with a torch immediately before lighting
• light the bonfire from one side, giving any hidden animals an escape route
• consider a raised fire pit or attend an organised display instead

Patrick Allen, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said: "Bonfire Night can be a wonderful opportunity for people to come together, but the noise and activity can be frightening and dangerous for wildlife, pets and livestock.

"A few simple steps can make a real difference.

"Build your bonfire on the day, check it carefully before lighting and think about how fireworks could affect animals and people nearby."

Fireworks can also be distressing for pets, livestock and wildlife.

Anyone planning a garden display has been urged to warn neighbours "well in advance", including when it will take place, so they can prepare and keep their pets safe indoors.

Choosing quieter fireworks can also help reduce disturbance.

Staffordshire County Council has also reminded residents that fireworks must not be set off or thrown in streets or other public places.

Patrick added: "Fireworks should never be set off in our country parks or other public spaces.

"These places provide important habitats for wildlife, so please celebrate responsibly, clear up afterwards and leave the countryside as you found it."

The county council warned that anyone selling or using fireworks illegally can face an unlimited fine or up to six months in prison.

Rangers have also reported problems with fireworks being set off close to areas used by deer and winter roosting birds, and dangerous unexploded rockets have been found.

Staffordshire County Council provided the following advice for anyone using fireworks at home:

• only buy fireworks from a licensed seller
• read and follow the instructions and required safety distances
• keep fireworks away from trees, fences and buildings
• never return to a firework once it has been lit
• avoid using fireworks under the influence of alcohol
• supervise children using sparklers and keep a bucket of water nearby
• wait until spent fireworks are completely cool, soak them in water overnight and dispose of them appropriately