Firework Safety: The Basics
With temperatures plummeting it can mean only one thing – we are fast approaching winter and bonfire night. Fireworks are a great way to enjoy an evening with family, huddled in big coats, gloves and hats, but there are some safety basics which you need to make yourself aware of when planning to use them.
The Risks
It might seem a fairly simple concept, given that fireworks explode, that you can seriously injure yourself and others if you don’t follow safety rules, but some people still manage to cause harm to themselves and others every year. When you’ve purchased illegal fireworks or don’t use caution around fireworks in general, you risk severe burns, the loss of sight and in more extreme cases, the loss of limbs. For fireworks which do not go off properly, and to extinguish fire, you should have a hose or bucket of water on hand. Never put fireworks in your pocket or hold them whilst attempting to ignite them.
The Law
Only adults over 18 years of age are allowed to purchase fireworks between 15th of October and the 10th of November (as well as between 26th and 31st of December). You should only ever purchase your fireworks from registered sellers; the fireworks also need to be compliant with the British Standard 7114 or the European equivalent to ensure they are safe for use. If you are found to be buying or using fireworks illegally you face a large fine or even imprisonment.
The Place
Most back gardens will be suitable for letting off fireworks, but you need to make sure that there is enough room for you to be able to stand away from the fireworks once they are lit – this is so that you avoid any debris once the firework goes off. In addition to this, you need to ensure the fireworks are far enough away from your house so they don’t cause damage to your property. If you have any sheds, fences or large hedges, then fireworks should be far enough away to avoid damage and the spread of fire.
The Kids
Children will no doubt love fireworks and it can be a night which they will fondly remember the rest of their lives if all the safety precautions are taken. It should go without saying that children should never light fireworks, and they must always be kept at a safe distance from them once they are lit. Sparklers are a firm favourite for the kids but they can reach heats of around 2000° so make sure that anyone handling a sparkler is wearing gloves, is well supervised and told not to touch the lit end. Have a bucket of cold water nearby for the safe disposal of sparklers when they are finished.
The Pets
You may already be aware of this, but it’s worth remembering that pets and animals are frightened and startled by the bright lights and loud noises which fireworks create. Make sure they are kept indoors and any neighbours with pets are notified if you live in close quarters.
For more information on any aspects of fire safety, simply get in touch with the professionals at City Fire today!
