Fire Safety
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.
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Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.
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Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
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Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.
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Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.
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Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
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Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
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Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
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Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
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Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
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Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
Protect your pets
If you have pets ensure they are indoors and that you leave either the TV or the radio on, to help drown out the bangs. If you have pets that live outside, like rabbits or guinea pigs, cover the cages with an old blanket or a piece of old carpet.
Follow the rules
Build your bonfire well away from buildings and hedges, and never leave it unattended. Light it after the fireworks, so there's no chance of sparks or heat from the fire setting the fireworks off. Don't build your bonfire too far in advance, as hibernating hedgehogs think it is the perfect home for the winter - and check there are no sleeping hedgehogs inside the pile before you light it.
Sparkler fun
Always wear gloves to protect your hands and have a bucket of water or sand ready to put used sparklers straight into after they've gone out.
Fireworks and The Law
If you are under 18 years of age you CAN'T:
a) buy the types of fireworks which can be sold only to adults
b) have fireworks in public places - if you do, the police can give you an on-the-spot fine of £80
Using fireworks legally
It is against the law to:
a) set off or throw fireworks in the street or other public place
b) set off fireworks between 11.00 pm and 7.00 am, except during certain celebrations
If found guilty by the courts, you could be fined up to £5,000 and can be imprisoned for up to three months. You may be liable for an on-the-spot fine of £80.
When you can set off fireworks during celebrations:
a) until midnight on Bonfire Night
b) until 1.00 am on New Years Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year
Pet Safety
As well as due consideration for others in planning the time of fireworks use, and the volume of noise, special care must be taken when pets and other animals are involved. As a responsible firework supplier we now include some low noise selection boxes and small rockets in some of the ranges available from major high street stockists.
Dogs and Cats
Keep dogs and cats inside when fireworks are being let off. Make sure your dog is walked earlier in the day before the fireworks start
Close all windows and doors, and block off cat flaps to stop pets escaping and to keep noise to a minimum
Draw the curtains, and if the animals are used to the sounds of TV or radio, switch them on (but not too loudly) in order to block out some of the noise of the fireworks
Small pets
Small pets e.g. rabbits, hamsters, mice and birds, are the most vulnerable to fireworks - make sure you:
Take hutches/cages into a garage or shed, or, a quiet room indoors if possible
Give your pet extra bedding to burrow into so it feels safe
Horses and Ponies
If horses, ponies or cattle are housed nearby, ensure you let the owners know, in advance that you intend to set off fireworks
If you know your animals react badly to loud noises, perhaps consider moving them for the night