Fireworks safety advice

Fireworks can be great to watch and add extra sparkle to special events, but they can be extremely dangerous and need to be used safely.

Be safe not sorry...

Fireworks are dangerous for anyone, not least children, so if you're thinking of having fireworks at home or even attending an event use the following information as safety guidance.


Fireworks code

• only buy fireworks marked BS 7114
• don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
• keep fireworks in a closed box
• follow the instructions on each firework
• light at arm's length, using a taper
• stand well back
• never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode
• never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
• always supervise children around fireworks
• light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
• never give sparklers to a child under five years old
• keep pets indoors.

Firework displays home

If you are having a fireworks display at home then there are some basic steps to follow to make sure that everyone stays safe and has a good time without getting hurt.


Buying fireworks

• always buy fireworks from a reputable shop (do not buy fireworks from unlicensed market stalls or from the back of a van)
• make sure that all fireworks that are purchased conform to British Standards - they should be marked with BS 7114 (avoid fireworks that do not have the genuine British Standard mark)
• there are different categories of fireworks that can be purchased by the public, these are categories 1-3 which includes indoor and outdoor fireworks
• always read the packet and check that the fireworks are suitable for the place where your home display will take place.

Using fireworks

• only set off outdoor fireworks in a private garden if there is enough space, to ensure they are set off safely and so spectators can stand a safe distance away
• never tamper with fireworks, always use them in the state they were purchased
• warn neighbours prior to a home display, especially the elderly and those with pets
• only have one responsible adult in charge of the firework storage, placement and ignition, making sure all spectators stand a safe distance away (as directed on firework instructions)
• take the time to carefully read the instructions supplied with the fireworks and be clear about how to use them safely
• take precautions when lighting fireworks, such as wearing gloves, a protective hat and eye protection
• light fireworks at arms length with a taper
• never return to a lit firework if it doesn't go off
• keep a bucket of water on standby in case of emergencies
• if you have a bonfire it should be a controlled size and at least 18 metres away from houses, hedges, fences, sheds and trees
• never put petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids on fires
• never put fireworks on a fire
• always keeps pets in a quiet, safe place indoors.

Sparklers

Sparklers cause numerous injuries every year and are just as dangerous as fireworks. They burn fiercely and should not be given to children under the age of five years. A few simple measures can be taken to ensure sparkler safety as well as fun.

• always supervise children with sparklers
• adults must always light sparklers one at a time
• store sparklers in a closed box in a cool, dry place
• only use sparkers outdoors in a private space that is not too crowded
• always wear gloves when using a sparkler
• always hold the sparkler at arms length away from the body
• don't wave sparklers near other people, they can cause severe burns
• when a sparkler has gone out, place it in cold water and leave it to cool
• don't run with sparklers.