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Fireworks Safety

 

The Law

 

You can’t buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you’re under 18, and it’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions.

Adult fireworks are category 2 and 3 fireworks - they don’t include things like party poppers.

 

Category 4 fireworks can only be used by professionals.

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. The exceptions are:

  • Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight

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

 

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

 

Safety Rules

 

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.

 

 

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