Fireworks and Bonfires

Fireworks (general) - Follow the general guidelines for bonfires, and a few extra ones too!

• Fireworks are explosives, in the wrong hands they can leave you with no hands.
• Read the instructions on your fireworks in advance, so you know what you need to do.
• Have a torch handy, and a bucket of water.
• Light fireworks at arms length using a taper.
• Don't drink alcohol if you are handling fireworks.
• Keep fireworks in a closed box until you need them.
• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.
• Always supervise children around fireworks.
• Keep pets indoors.
• Don't return to a firework that has been lit - even if it hasn't gone off it could still explode! [give it 5 minutes]

Fireworks (public displays)

• Choose a suitable site. Make sure it is big enough, well laid out, roped off and with exit routes clearly marked.
• Are you providing any toilets? - if there are no accessible permanent WCs consider temporary hire of portables.
• Be aware that certain firework types can only be used by professionals.
• You may have liability for damage or injury, so make sure you are insured.
• Appoint stewards or marshals, enough to keep things safe, and explain their duties to them.
• Have a first aid box or point, and somebody who knows first aid might be useful.
• Be aware of the location of overhead power lines, and if you are near an airport you may need to contact them.
• Don't allow spectators to bring their own fireworks or alcohol to the site.
• Dispose of all rubbish the next day - have litter bins, dustbins or bags available during the event.

Fireworks - new laws apply!

It is now an offence for anybody under 18 to possess an 'adult firework' in a public place (this excludes sparklers and party poppers). It is also illegal to let fireworks off in the street. Only a fireworks professional may possess a category 4 firework. Sales of fireworks are restricted to certain periods, mainly around November 5th, New Years Day, Diwali and Chinese New Year. There is a noise curfew - fireworks must not be set off between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. Some of these new laws give the Police the option to issue fixed penalty tickets - £80 each!