Bonfire Night Safety: Helping Everyone Stay Safe This Firework Season
As families across the district prepare to celebrate the upcoming Bonfire Night, parents, carers and children are being reminded to enjoy fireworks and bonfires safely.
Bonfire Night can be an exciting occasion, but fireworks, sparklers and bonfires can cause serious injuries if they are not used responsibly. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable celebration.
Safety Tips for Parents and Carers
- Attend organised firework displays wherever possible.
- Never allow children to handle fireworks.
- Keep fireworks in a closed box and follow the instructions carefully.
- Ensure bonfires are built away from buildings, fences, sheds and overhanging branches.
- Check bonfires thoroughly before lighting to make sure no children, animals or wildlife have climbed inside.
- Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of an emergency.
- Avoid alcohol if you are responsible for lighting fireworks or supervising children.
- Call 999 immediately if there is a serious fire or injury.
Staying Safe with Sparklers
Sparklers may look harmless, but they can burn at extremely high temperatures.
Children should:
- Always be supervised by an adult.
- Wear gloves when holding sparklers.
- Hold sparklers at arm's length.
- Never run, throw or play games with sparklers.
- Place used sparklers in a bucket of cold water once they have gone out.
Advice for Children and Young People
Remember:
- Never go near a firework that has already been lit.
- Do not pick up discarded fireworks.
- Stay a safe distance from bonfires and fireworks.
- Follow the instructions of adults and event organisers at all times.
- Tell an adult immediately if someone is hurt or if something does not look safe.
Looking Out for Others
The loud noises and bright flashes associated with Bonfire Night can be distressing for some people, as well as pets and wildlife. Please be considerate of your neighbours and take steps to keep animals safe and secure.
By following some simple safety advice, we can all help to ensure Bonfire Night is enjoyable, memorable and safe for everyone.
The Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) have created some essential family safety tips to keep little ones safe. Download the tips here. Please also visit the fireworks advice hub.
Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy Bonfire Night responsibly.
