Firework Safety
How to have fun and stay safe
A fireworks display can be fun and exciting for everyone. But fireworks are explosives and can be dangerous if not handled properly. If you’re hosting your own fireworks party, here’s what you need to know:
Buying your fireworks
• Only buy fireworks from all year round licensed shops and registered retailers
• Only buy fireworks that meet European safety standards. They’ll be marked with the CE mark
Lighting your fireworks
• Select one responsible adult to be in charge of the fireworks and lighting
• Never drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks
• Store fireworks in a closed, spark-proof box and only take them out one at a time. The box must be well away from bonfires or any other sources of heat or fire
• Follow the instructions on each firework. Different fireworks have different hazards, so the instructions vary. Use a torch if you read the instructions in the dark
• Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a taper or portfire
• Do not go back to a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode
• Never put fireworks in your pocket and do not throw fireworks
• Do not set off fireworks late at night. See our Fireworks Laws for legal cut off times
Keeping your guests safe
• Make sure all your guests stand well back from the firing area and direct rockets away from them. As well as being safe, they’ll be able to appreciate a full view of your spectacular display
• Always supervise young children around fireworks. You must not give sparklers to a child under the age of five
• Always have a bucket of water nearby
• Light sparklers one at a time in gloved hands at arm’s length. When the sparkler goes out, put it end-down in a bucket of water
• Never leave matches or lighters lying around
• Keep pets indoors
Burning your bonfire
• Let your neighbours know
• Build the bonfire away from any cables, sheds, fences and trees
• Don’t use petrol or paraffin to get the fire going
• If your bonfire has been built over several days, please check for animals hiding before lighting
• Don’t throw any fireworks into the fire
• Only burn dry material. Don’t burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby
• Don’t leave the bonfire unattended. A responsible adult should supervise the bonfire until it has burnt out
• Keep children and pets away
• Make sure the fire is out and all surroundings are made safe before you leave the area
Keeping yourself safe
• Selling or using fireworks illegally can result in a £5,000 fine or six months in prison.
• You can also get an on-the-spot fine of £90
350 Barlow Moor Rd
Chorlton
Manchester, M21 8AZ
07810 222123
info@chorltonfireworks.com