Fireworks are safe if you use them properly. If you’re putting on a home display, you should follow some simple steps to make sure that everyone has a good time without getting hurt:
- Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and check the time you can legally set off fireworks.
- Only buy fireworks which carry the CE or UKCA marks, keep them in a closed box, and use them one at a time.
- Read and follow the instructions on each firework, using a torch if necessary.
- Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
- Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
- Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
- Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
- Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
Follow these top tips for sparkler safety:
- It is recommended that sparklers are not given to under-fives.
- Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves.
- Hold sparklers at arm’s length while being lit and light them one at a time.
- Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people.
Did you know?
- It is against the law to carry fireworks in public if you’re under 18.
- Fireworks must not be sold to anyone who is under 18.
- It is an offence to let off fireworks during night hours (11pm to 7am), except on Bonfire Night (midnight), Diwali, New Year, and Chinese New Year (1am).
- It is an offence under the Explosives Act 1875 to tamper with or modify fireworks.
- Sparklers can reach temperatures more than 15 times as hot as boiling water!
After the event
- Never put fireworks, even those which are fully spent, on the bonfire.
- Never dispose of fireworks by burying them.
- Safely dispose of fully spent fireworks.
- Soak misfired or partly spent fireworks in a container of water in an area where they cannot be tampered with (preferably away from the display site) and contact the manufacturer or supplier for advice on disposal.
We have the following guide available to download: Bonfire and firework safety
Further advice can be found on the RoSPA website.
For child-friendly information relating to Fireworks, please see our Pumpkins, Bonfires and Fireworks page, where they have the chance to enter our Halloween Competition too.