SAFETY

Firework safety checklist
Figures have shown that more children than adults get hurt by fireworks. If you are thinking of using fireworks as part of your celebrations, you should follow the steps listed below.

Before your firework display
Preparation is key to enjoying fireworks safely, so:

•don’t buy fireworks from anywhere you’re not sure about, like a van or a temporary, unlicensed market stall
•only buy fireworks marked BS 7114 – this is the British Standard that all fireworks should meet (a reputable shop will know this)
•follow the instructions on each firework – read them in daylight or by torchlight, never by a naked flame
•make suitable supports and launchers if you’re setting off catherine wheels or rockets

It’s easy to get a few household things together, for example:
•timber stakes and cable ties, cling film to keep fireworks dry on damp nights.
•a bucket of water – to cool sparklers and put out any small fires
•eye protection and gloves

Lighting fireworks
Follow these simple guidelines to stay safe:
•only one person should be responsible for letting off fireworks
•don’t drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks
•light fireworks at arm’s length, using a taper
•make sure everyone stands well back
•never go back to a firework that has been lit – even if it hasn’t gone off it could still explode
Sparklers
Sparklers are fun, but always:
•supervise children with sparklers and never give them to a child under five
•light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
•put used sparklers hot end down into a bucket of sand or water
Other tips on the night
Finally, follow these other rules for a safe night:
•keep pets indoors – most animals get very scared by the lights and noise from fireworks
•never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
•never throw spent fireworks on a bonfire
•take care around bonfires – all clothes, even those labelled ‘low flammability’, can catch fire
 
 www.fireworksafety.co.uk