Firework Top Ten Safety Code for Adults

Firework Top Ten Safety Code for Adults

Young people should watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance and follow the safety rules for using sparklers. Only adults should deal with firework displays and the lighting of fireworks. They should also take care of the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used.

Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.

Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.

Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.

Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.

Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.

Never return to a firework once it has been lit.

Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.

Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.

Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.

Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

The law says you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.

You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:

Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight

New Year's Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am

Check with your council to find out about any local rules for setting off fireworks.

Get information about firework safety from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive.

Buying fireworks

You can only buy fireworks (including sparklers) from registered sellers for private use on these dates:

15 October to 10 November

26 to 31 December

3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year

At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.

You can be fined up to £5,000 and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.

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Message Sent By
Stuart Taylor
(West Mercia, Police Community Support Officer, Hagley & Rubery)