Firework safety checklist

With Bonfire night fast approaching, people are being warned to take extra caution when it comes to purchasing and lighting fireworks around children, as figures show that more youngsters get hurt by fireworks each year in comparison to adults.

Things to do before the firework display commences

When it comes to fireworks, exercising caution and doing groundwork is key, which means:

  • Be a responsible consumer and always check that you are purchasing fireworks that are marked BS 7114 or with a CE mark as this shows they have met and been approved by British and European safety standards.
  • Always go to a trusted supplier, do not try to purchase any from an unlicensed seller.
  • Before day light falls, make sure all firework instructions have been read and understood
  • Make sure you have adequate supports and launchers for the fireworks, as well as safe distances before any firework is lit - caution and preparation are key. What you will require on the night
  • There are a few essential items that you'll need before the display gets going, however in many instances, household items and general possessions will do.
  • First and foremost - protect yourself. Wear gloves and eye protection and always avoid standing directly over a firework.
  • Use a bucket from the sink and put water in - this can be used to cool sparklers and is always there if a firework and fire gets out of hand.
  • If you have one at your disposal, another bucket will also be required as this can be used to set fireworks off, once it has been filled with soil. It will prove to be a sturdy and supportive base for even the largest of fireworks.
  • If you want to exercise extreme caution, put the fireworks in a tough metal box and take out one at a time - this will ensure that the fireworks are well kept and are well away from any spectator.

The lighting of the fireworks and the display

Putting on an impressive show is important to anyone, but staying safe is of priceless importance. All it takes is a few simple pointers to ensure that any Bonfire night goes without a glitch.

  • Implement just one person to take control of lighting fireworks as this will avoid too many people in the danger zone and will also mean that the person knows exactly what is to be lit and when.
  • Always light fireworks - regardless of size - at arm's length, using a taper and standing well back after the fuse has been lit.
  • If possible, avoid alcohol if lighting fireworks, as it is always wise to keep a clear head.
  • If a firework doesn't go off, never go back to it and try it again. In this instance, make sure people stand far away too.

      • Sparklers and their warnings

      Everyone, especially children, loves sparklers. They are still classed as fireworks however and should be treated with the same caution as other larger offerings. Always ensure that:

      • Children know the dangers of sparklers and what to do in a an emergency
      • You never give a sparkler to any child under the age of five, and if you do offer a child a sparkler, you accompany and supervise them at all times
      • Everyone wears gloves and holds at arm's length
      • There is always a bucket nearby that can be used for discarded sparklers
        • Bonfire night is one of the biggest nights in the British calendar, but if you want to enjoy the night without any mishaps, exercise common sense. Other tips include;
      • Keep your pets indoors and ensure that they have somewhere to go to escape the noise
      • Keep an eye on spectators and don't allow them to go near discarded and used fireworks
      • Never throw fireworks on a bonfire