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03/01/2023

Fireworks

Fireworks

Everyone should be able to enjoy fireworks safely, whether at an organised display or in their back garden.

An organised, public fireworks display is much safer and more impressive than setting up your own. Details of public fireworks displays can usually be found in the local newspapers and on the local radio station websites.

Whilst most people enjoy fireworks responsibly, in the wrong hands they can cause real misery. Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.

Irresponsible use of fireworks can cause damage to property and do significant harm to people and animals. Not only is there a danger from fireworks exploding, they can also pose a serious fire risk as well.

Members of the public may only use fireworks on private property, such as their back garden. Only licensed professionals can use fireworks in public places.

What NOT To Do

  • Do not throw or set off fireworks (including sparklers) in a public space
  • Do not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:
    • Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight.
    • New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am.
  • Do not use naked flames, including cigarettes near fireworks
  • Do not return to a firework once it has been lit
  • Do not put fireworks in your or anyone else’s pocket
  • Do not use paraffin or petrol to start a bonfire

What TO Do

  • Always consider attending an organised public fireworks display, they are much safer
  • Only purchase fireworks including sparklers from shops registered to sell them for private use
  • Only purchase fireworks that are CE marked, store them in a closed box and use them one at a time
  • Follow the instructions on each individual firework, use a taper to light them at arms-length
  • Direct fireworks away from any spectators
  • Be aware that fireworks can only be bought from shops registered to sell them for private use on selected dates of the year:
    • 15 October – 10 November
    • 26 December – 31 December
    • Three days before Diwali
    • Three days before Chinese New Year
  • Fireworks can only be bought outside of these dates from shops with a special licence.

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