Stay Safe this Bonfire Night while using Fireworks

01 November 2017

Bonfire Night is a chance for the whole family to go out in the evening to enjoy fireworks, hot food and sparklers.

However, injuries can easily happen – which is why it’s always a better idea to go to large public displays, rather than attempt to light fireworks in your own garden.

And it’s not just on Guy Fawkes Night. Celebrations at Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year can be just as risky.

In order to have a successful bonfire night this 5th November, make sure everyone in your party is clued on firework safety rules.

Fireworks

From an early age, it is so important to brief the rules on firework safety for children. Ideally, we recommend going to a professional fireworks display, where trained staff set up the show. However, if you're doing fireworks at home, make sure you're following these firework tips:

Don’t put fireworks in pockets

Keep fireworks in a closed tin, and take them out one at a time

Follow the instructions to each firework using a torch

Never return to a firework once it has been lit

Light fireworks at arm’s length with a taper

Keep naked flames like cigarettes away from fireworks

Don’t tuck trousers into wellies, wear them outside of them instead.

Sparklers

When it comes to sparklers, it’s a good idea to have as many adults as possible looking after children. The most important lesson that little ones need to understand is that sparklers can get very hot, even when they appear to have burnt out.

Always light sparklers one at a time

Hold sparklers at arm’s length

Wear gloves when handling sparklers

When sparklers are finished, deposit them in a bucket of sand or water

Don’t give sparklers to under-5s

Teach older children to not wave their sparklers near anyone else

Bonfires

Bonfires can be a brilliant spectacle, but not one that comes without any risks. Council-run bonfires are the best ones to go to – they’re bigger, safer and have more space than ones on domestic property. With that in mind, it’s also worth bearing in mind, these bonfire night safety tips:

Make sure a bucket of water is kept close by in case of accident

Tie back long hair

Ensure children aren’t wearing loose, flowing clothes

Never pour petrol or paraffin on a fire

Make sure the bonfire site is away from any trees, buildings and a safe distance from the crowd

Check for any overhead cables or pylons before the bonfire is lit.

What do you have planned for 5th November? Any yummy Bonfire Night recipes, safety tips or exciting trips planned? Let us know by getting in touch on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

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