Fireworks are explosives which burn at extremely high temperatures and can cause serious injuries. They need careful handling and storage.
We would always recommend attending an organised firework display but if you are holding your own display please follow our tips below.
CONSIDER
- Consider attending an organised display, they are much safer for you and your family.
ALWAYS
- Always buy fireworks from a reputable seller, every firework should have a UKCA mark on them to state they have passed the required safety standards.
- Always keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
- Always read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.
- Always light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.
- Always keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
- Always direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators or flammable objects such as bushes and trees.
NEVER
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
- Never put fireworks in your pocket and never throw them.
- Never let children play with fireworks.
How to safely dispose of out of date or unused fireworks
- You may be able to return out-of-date or unused to the place/retailer where you bought them.
- If you want to dispose of them yourself:
- Submerge the firework in a bucket of water for at least 24 hours
- Place them in a bag to keep the water in and contact the council or waste disposal service for advice on where to take them for disposal
There’s more advice on firework safety at on the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents website RoSPA- Firework safety tips | RoSPA
How to stay safe around bonfires
We recommend not having a bonfire in your garden. They can easily get out of hand and cause a risk to life.
There are lots of organised bonfire events each year, with full safety precautions taking place in advance.
Professional events will have a full risk assessments in place, with things like escape routes, first aid, and emergency firefighting equipment to hand. Organisers also alert the local council and emergency services of the event, so that we are aware it’s happening. The difference with holding your own is that the fire can get out of hand and become very dangerous.
Look online to find locally organised events in the lead up to bonfire night, but if you are planning to have your own bonfire please follow the tips below,
CONSIDER
- Consider telling your neighbours about plans to hold your own bonfire. This can help reduce any unnecessary 999 calls.
ALWAYS
- Always place a barrier around your fire, ensuring everyone's kept at least 5 metres away when the fire is lit.
- Always ensure you have a supply of water nearby to dampen the flames if necessary.
- Always ensure there are no children or animals hiding in the bonfire before you light it.
AVOID
- Avoid burning rubbish and other household waste such as plastic or chemicals, only burn untreated wood.
- Avoid building your fire underneath tree's and too close too hedges and bushes.
- Avoid building your bonfire too far in advance - leaving materials lying about can encourage antisocial behaviour.
NEVER
- Never use accelerants such as petrol or paraffin to light your fire.
- Never build your fire near fences and sheds.
- Never leave a lit bonfire unattended.
If the fire gets out of hand, call 999 and ask for the fire service immediately.
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