Many communities organise public displays supervised by professionals, offering a safer, fun environment for families. Fireworks can be an exciting experience for families, but they also pose potential risks if not handled with care. If you still plan to organise a display, follow these tips for a safe experience.
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Buying fireworks: Only buy fireworks that have a CE mark, from licenced retailers.
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Location: Choose a spacious, safe location away from buildings and trees.
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Using fireworks:
- Read the instructions and safety precautions provided with fireworks. Ensure everyone involved understands how to use them safely.
- Avoid consuming alcohol when handling fireworks. Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Never allow children to handle fireworks unsupervised. Even sparklers, which seem harmless, can cause serious burns if mishandled.
- Light fireworks with caution, one at a time, using long-handled lighters.
- Keep a safe distance from fireworks when they are lit. Follow the recommended safety distances provided on firework packaging.
- Encourage everyone to wear safety gear such as gloves and safety glasses when handling fireworks.
- Never try to relight failing fireworks.
- Have a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies. This can help extinguish small fires
- Keep pets indoors to prevent distress.
- After the display, properly dispose of spent fireworks by soaking them in water before placing them in the bin. Dispose of debris responsibly and respect local regulations.
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Storing fireworks: Keep fireworks in a closed box and light them one at a time.
Tips on keeping yourself and your children safe around fireworks to prevent burns:
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Sparklers can get up to six times as hot as a pan of cooking oil. This can cause serious damage to your child's skin. Children under 5 should not use sparklers. If your child over 5 is using a sparkler, supervise them at all times. Make sure they keep a safe distance away from their face and body, and others. Only use one sparkler at a time.
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Fireworks can remain hot for some time after use. Handling them before they are cool could cause burns. Put used sparklers and fireworks in a bucket of cold water or sand.
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Fireworks can sometimes go off before we are ready. This can cause burns to the hands, face, or any exposed skin. Wear protective clothing and make sure your children and other people are standing well away.
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As the firework explodes, it creates heat and embers. Keep a good distance to avoid getting burned by these.
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If your clothes catch fire, it can spread fast and lead to serious burns. Wear non-flammable, snug clothes, tie long hair back, and keep a good distance away. Avoid loose-fitting, flammable clothes.
If clothing has caught fire, remember to:
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stop moving around. Moving could fan the flames.
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drop to the ground. You could wrap the person in a non-flammable material, such as wool.
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roll on the floor to help extinguish the flames.
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make sure someone has called 999 for medical help.
If someone gets a burn from a firework:
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cool the burn under cool (but not cold) running water for at least 10 minutes.
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ask someone to call 999 to request medical help.
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remove any restrictive clothing or jewellery near the area, unless stuck to the burn.
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elevate their legs, if possible, to prevent shock.
For more guidance on firework safety
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In England and Wales (SSRSPCA):  the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
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In Scotland (SSPCA): Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
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In Northern Ireland (USPCA): Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
The British Fireworks Association also provide further information and guidance on firework safety:
Useful Resources and Links
Firework safety - RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents)