The National Grid has issued a safety warning ahead of Bonfire Night.

The electricity distributor, which oversees the electricity lines, cables, and substations across the West Midlands, has advised people to steer clear of power lines and substations during celebrations.

The warning comes as bonfire and firework events are expected on Tuesday (November 5).

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The National Grid cautioned that fireworks set off too close to electrical infrastructure could cause serious injuries and power outages in communities.

The heat and smoke from bonfires could also damage power lines, reducing the critical distance between the fires and power lines carrying up to 132,000 volts, posing a danger to those nearby.

Jason Powell, lead operational health and safety adviser at the distributor, said: "Whether it’s an organised event or a get-together with family and friends in your own back garden, please do be aware of your own surroundings and make sure you’re well away from overhead lines and substations."

Five safety tips have been provided to ensure a hazard-free celebration.

These include planning bonfire celebrations in daylight to identify potential hazards, avoiding lighting bonfires under or close to power lines, and keeping bonfires and fireworks away from electrical equipment.

It also warned that an overhead wire does not need to be touched to cause serious damage, as electricity can spark across small gaps when interfered with.

Mr Powell said: "It will only take a matter of minutes to scope out the area you’re planning to celebrate in daylight when hazards are more visible, and reduces the risk of incidents that could harm yourself and others, or cause power cuts in the local area."

If customers spot fireworks coming into contact with power lines or experience a home power outage, they can call 105 at any time.