As Northamptonshire prepares to welcome in the New Year, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding residents to celebrate responsibly and keep safety at the forefront of their festivities.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending an organised display, where professionals manage the risks. However, if you choose to hold your own celebration at home, it’s vital to take precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your property.
Before lighting any fireworks, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully in advance, using daylight or torchlight rather than a naked flame. When lighting them, always do so at arm’s length with a safety lighter or fuse wick, then stand back. Never return to a firework once it has been lit and never throw fireworks or carry them in your pocket.
Choose a safe location in your garden away from fences, sheds, hedges, and any other combustible materials. Make sure the area is clear and stable before setting off fireworks.
After your display, take care when clearing up. Wear strong gloves and use tongs to collect used fireworks and sparklers, then follow these steps:
- SOAK IT – soak them in water overnight to ensure there is no chance of them setting anything alight.
- BAG IT – collect all the used fireworks in a bag.
- BIN IT – put them in the rubbish bin (not the recycling bin).
Never put anything hot in your bin, such as fireworks, sparklers, bonfire or BBQ ashes, or disposable BBQs.
Sparklers may seem harmless, but they burn at temperatures of around 1,000°C. Always wear gloves—preferably leather—and supervise children closely. Sparklers should never be given to children under five, and they should be held at arm’s length, away from others. Once finished, place them in a bucket of water or sand.
It’s also important to be prepared for emergencies. Keep a bucket of water, a garden hose, or a fire extinguisher nearby, and never drink alcohol if you are responsible for lighting fireworks.
Darren Carson, Prevention Team Leader at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said:
“We want people to enjoy their New Year’s celebrations, and although fireworks can seem like harmless fun, they are live explosives and can cause serious injury or damage if not handled correctly.
“We urge people to always buy fireworks from reputable sellers and to follow the instructions carefully.”
For full guidance, please read The Firework Code at: https://www.britishfireworksassociation.co.uk/firework-advice-for-consumers/.
“Celebrate safely and make sure your New Year begins with joy, not a trip to A&E,” added Darren.
For more safety advice, visit: https://www.northantsfire.gov.uk
