Remember, remember, the fifth of November – we all look forward to bonfire night, and some of us may host our own fireworks party but let’s not forget how to enjoy fireworks safely.
It’s always safest to attend an organised public fireworks display, but if you are hosting your own, here are some top tips on how to use, stay safe around and dispose of fireworks…
Storing fireworks in your home
It’s important to remember that fireworks are explosives. They should therefore be treated with great care. When storing fireworks at home, make sure to:
- Keep fireworks well away from any sources of heat or ignition, including heaters, naked flames and smokers’ materials (including vapes)
- Store fireworks away from flammable materials such as petrol, oil and paint
- Keep fireworks dry and in a well-ventilated area to prevent damage
- Keep fireworks far away from children and animals
- For Cardboard UN cartons: Store fireworks in their original packaging where possible. Mail order fireworks will be supplied in tough cardboard boxes.
Whilst you’re preparing and setting off your fireworks display
- Make sure you only buy fireworks from a reputable seller, marked UKCA or CE (fireworks should not be sold to or used by anyone under 18)
- Always read and follow the instructions for using each firework
- Have a bucket of water nearby – it’s also best to have a torch and eye protection
- A bucket of soft earth to put the fireworks in is best, with suitable supporters and launchers if you are using Catherine wheels or rockets.
- Keep the fireworks in a closed metal box and use them one at a time
- Light them at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
- Once you’ve lit a firework, keep away and do not return to it
- Never throw fireworks or put them in your pocket
- Keep pets indoors and ensure children are supervised
- Remember that alcohol and fireworks do not mix!
- If you are lighting sparklers as well, do so one at a time and wear gloves – and never give them to children under 5
How to dispose of your fireworks safely
- Soak your used fireworks in a pre-filled bucket of water overnight (or for at least 15 minutes)
- Wrap your soaked fireworks in a plastic bag
- Put them in your general waste bin or take them to your local Recycling Centre
Remember, it is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, or between midnight and 7am on Bonfire Night, and 1am and 7am on Diwali, New Year, or Chinese New Year.
All of this information and more can be found on the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service website.
