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Safety tips for Bonfire Night

‘Enjoy your firework displays but make sure you stay safe’ is the key message from fire officers ahead of Bonfire Night.

The safest way to celebrate, according to firefighters at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, is to visit an organised, official display.

But, for those who are planning celebrations at home, NFRS would like to share its safety tips on using fireworks as safely as possible.

District Liaison Officer Tina Collett said: “Fireworks are so readily available at this time of year but people can too easily forget what they are buying isn’t a harmless toy, the consequences can be devastating if they are used incorrectly.
“Fireworks should only be used by adults, according to their instructions, and in a safe way, which includes choosing appropriate locations for both fireworks and bonfires, away from fences, sheds and overhanging trees.”

According to the law, no one under the age of 18 can buy fireworks. The law also states that people must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.

Fireworks must not be set off between 11pm and 7am except for on Bonfire Night when the cut off is midnight. On New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, the cut off is 1am.

To help people celebrate without accident or injury, NFRS has put together a video and a list of tips on enjoying Bonfire Night safely.

10 tips to keep you safe on Bonfire Night

1. Sparklers are not suitable for children under five. Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
2. Always follow the instructions on fireworks
3. Never throw fireworks or put them in your pocket
4. Keep a bucket of water handy
5. Stand clear of fireworks. Never return to a lit firework
6. Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick
7. Position bonfires away from sheds, fences and trees
8. Before lighting a bonfire, check the structure is sound and it does not have small children or animals hiding inside it
9. Keep pets indoors
10. To find out more about the laws governing firework use, please see: www.gov.uk/fireworks-the-law

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