Fireworks - 5th November

It’s that time of year that all household pets hate, and lots of young people either end up in trouble with the law, or in hospital…Firework night.

Safety First

Hopefully by following this tips and using a bit of common sense you should stay safe;
1. Don’t mess around with fireworks, they are explosives and can cause serious injury.
2. When you are watching fireworks stand well back.
3. Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off there is still a danger that it could explode at any moment.
4. Fireworks will frighten your pets, so keep your dogs and cats etc indoors.
5. If you are given a sparkler, always wear gloves, hold it arm’s length, and when it goes out, don’t touch it because it could still burn you. Put it end down into a bucket of water.
6. If you are buying fireworks, make sure they are marked with the BS 7114 safety standard.
7. Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.
8. Keep fireworks in a closed box.
9. Follow the instructions on each firework.
10. Light fireworks at arms length using a taper.
11. Never put fireworks in your pockets or throw them.
12. Don’t set off noisy fireworks late at night and never after 11pm.

The Law

To stay out of trouble you should know the following;
1. It is an offence for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in a public place.
2. With the exception of 5th Nov, Diwali, New Year's eve and the Chinese New Year it is Illegal to use fireworks between 11.00pm and 7.00am.
3. The sale of fireworks to anyone under 18 years old is illegal.
4. The sale of caps, cracker snaps and party poppers to anyone under 16 years old is illegal.
5. Individuals can store fireworks for private use for up to 14 days, provided they are kept in a safe place.
6. The throwing or setting off of fireworks in a highway or street is an offence under the Explosives Act 1875. This is enforced by the police, with a fine of up to £5,000.

Please note that these guidelines apply to the UK