We celebrate Bonfire Night each year with joy, tradition, and a touch of childhood nostalgia. Yet fireworks and open flames bring real dangers. We are committed to helping families enjoy this much loved evening while protecting children, neighbours, pets, and property. Careful planning, responsibility, and respect for safety guidance keep celebrations memorable for the right reasons.

Why Firework Safety Matters

Fireworks are explosives. Burns, eye injuries, and hearing damage are among the most common emergency cases recorded in early November. NHS figures show an annual rise in burn-related advice searches during this period, and children face a high risk of hand and face injuries. We encourage everyone to treat fireworks as controlled devices, not toys.

Public Firework Displays: The Safest Choice

Attending a professionally managed display offers the safest experience. Trained teams handle ignition, crowd control, and fire safety equipment. Displays often take place in large open spaces with emergency personnel on standby. Choosing a public event removes the risk of lighting fireworks at home and ensures everyone can focus on enjoyment. Local councils and community groups list approved displays in advance, so it is simple to find one nearby.

Planning a Safe Private Bonfire Night at Home

When families host their own event, preparation is essential. We advise creating a written safety checklist and assigning responsibilities to trusted adults.

Legal and Supervision Requirements

• Fireworks are not for anyone under 18 to buy or possess in public
• Only sober and responsible adults should light fireworks
• Keep children at a safe distance and supervise sparklers at all times

Firework Setup and Firing Procedure

• Use fireworks that show the CE or UKCA mark
• Read instructions in daylight before the event
• Place fireworks on stable ground with clear space all around
• Light with a taper or safety lighter, keeping your body away from the fuse
• Never lean over fireworks or return to a dud device
• Store unused fireworks in a closed, fireproof container

Bonfire Construction and Control

• Build bonfires well away from fences, sheds, trees, and overhead lines
• Use dry wood only. Never add petrol, paraffin, or gas cylinders
• Check the pile for hedgehogs and wildlife before lighting
• Keep a water supply, sand, or fire extinguisher available
• Douse ashes thoroughly and stir to ensure no embers remain

Sparkler Safety for Children and Adults

Sparklers burn at temperatures hotter than a blowtorch. Treat them with caution.

• Do not give sparklers to children under five
• Wear gloves and hold sparklers at arm length
• Light one sparkler at a time
• Place finished sparklers in a bucket of cold water

Responsible Behaviour Around Fireworks

Noise, smoke, and bright flashes affect animals, vulnerable individuals, and neighbours. We encourage respectful community minded behaviour.

• Notify neighbours and nearby pet owners if planning fireworks
• Avoid late evening firing
• Keep pets indoors with curtains closed and calming background noise
• Maintain alcohol free supervision near fireworks and bonfires
• Never aim fireworks toward people, buildings, or roads

First Aid Steps for Firework Burns

Swift and calm action reduces harm. For burns:

1. Cool the burn with cool running water for 20 to 30 minutes
2. Remove jewellery or clothing near the burn, but do not remove fabric stuck to skin
3. Cover the burn loosely with cling film or a clean plastic bag
4. Avoid creams, oils, or ice
5. Seek medical help if the burn is large or affects the face, hands, joints, or genitals, or if you have concerns

Call emergency services immediately for severe injuries or breathing difficulty from smoke inhalation.

Firework Code Checklist

Environmental Care after the Display

Fireworks produce litter and residue. Show consideration for wildlife and your community this bonfire night.

• Collect debris once it has cooled
• Separate recyclables when possible
• Inspect the area for stray materials the next morning
• Choose quieter fireworks to reduce stress for animals and neighbours

Download SafeKab This Bonfire Night

Safety and reliability are at the heart of everything we do at SafeKab. Why not download our app and be part of the safety revolution and let us help you feel confident with every journey you make!

Why SafeKab is the Best Safe Taxi App in the UK

• Cashless payments – no need for cash handling or surprise fares
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• Community-driven driver ratings

For more information about the app or to become a partner in this exciting new step in community safety, visit www.safekab.org or follow us on Facebook.