Firework safety

Fireworks are enjoyed responsibly by thousands of people up and down the country every year. They can be used to celebrate all sorts of occasions, but they are primarily used to celebrate Guy Fawkes night, Diwali, new year’s eve and the Chinese new year. It is necessary to take utmost precautions while handling fireworks. Children can only operate fireworks under adult supervision. When buying fireworks, make sure they comply with BS 7114 and are clearly marked for their intended use - indoor, garden or display.

• Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin
• Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately
• Never put fireworks in your pocket
• Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp - never use a naked flame
• Light fireworks at arms length using a taper or a firework lighter
• Stand well back and never return to a firework after it has been lit - it could explode in your face
• Make sure that all children with fireworks are well supervised
• Never throw fireworks
• Keep all pets and animals indoors
• Take care with sparklers; wear gloves to hold them, and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water or sand as soon as they are finished

If you suspect someone is selling fireworks without a licence, or if fireworks are being sold to underage children, call the Trading Standards team on 0161 925 1346.

This page was last updated on 31 October 2011