Fireworks: Be safe not sorry, always follow the code
Information on the safe use of fireworks
dti.gov.uk
fireservice.co.uk
hse.gov.uk/explosives
berr.gov.uk/fireworks
bluecross.org.uk (pets)
- Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.
- Inform neighbours and be aware of their concerns.
- Do not set off fireworks after 11pm (except on the 5th of November when they can be used up to midnight; New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali up to 1am the following day).
- Check the fireworks you buy are suitable for the size of the garden, most fireworks require a spectator distance of 25m, but some will only require a 5m safety distance.
- One person - clearly identified - should be responsible for fireworks.
- 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 and keep others 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.
- Put used sparklers hot end down into a bucket of sand or water.
- Keep pets indoors.
- Wear strong gloves and use tongs to collect spent fireworks.
Display Layout
The following display layout is recommended in the Health & Safety Booklet, "Giving Your Own Firework Display".
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The size of the relative areas will depend on the nature of the fireworks being used, but for most fireworks sold the distance between the spectator area and the firing area should be a minimum of 25 metres. Follow the instructions on the fireworks carefully! | |||||||||||||||||||||
