Every 5th of November, the UK lights up in celebration of Guy Fawkes Night, also known as Bonfire Night. It’s a tradition that dates back to 1605, when Guy Fawkes and his group’s infamous plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament was foiled. Since then, communities across the UK have marked the occasion with fireworks, bonfires, and outdoor gatherings to commemorate the failed plot.
Excited for the fireworks and the glow of the bonfire? With all the fun ahead, it’s easy to forget that Bonfire Night celebrations also come with a responsibility to stay safe. Whether you’re hosting a family bonfire in your garden or attending a large public event, following proper Bonfire Night safety precautions will help ensure everyone has a safe and memorable night.
But did you know there are specific laws in the UK regarding fireworks? Let’s get into the essential Bonfire Night safety tips you need to know for a safe and enjoyable Guy Fawkes Night!
Know the Law: Fireworks Regulations in the UK
Before you start setting off fireworks, it’s important to understand the legal regulations surrounding their use. The Fireworks Regulations 2004 set strict rules to help protect the public:
- Time Restrictions: In general, you can only set off fireworks between 7 AM and 11 PM. However, there are a few exceptions where the curfew is extended:
- On Guy Fawkes Night (5th November), fireworks can be set off until midnight.
- On New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year, you’re allowed to let fireworks off until 1 AM.
- Age Restrictions: Only people aged 18 and over can legally buy fireworks in the UK. This is to prevent younger individuals from handling dangerous explosives unsupervised.
- Fines: Breaking these laws can result in an on-the-spot fine of £90 or even prosecution, with fines up to £5,000 or imprisonment.
Did you know about these restrictions before? If not, make sure to check local rules so you can enjoy your fireworks safely and legally!
Bonfire Night Safety Starts Before You Strike a Match: Plan Ahead
Before you even strike a match or light that first sparkler, it’s crucial to plan your evening with safety in mind. Whether you’re hosting a gathering in your garden, attending a local event, or just watching from afar, following some basic Bonfire Night fire safety advice will ensure everyone has a great time while staying safe.
1. Choose a Safe Spot for Your Bonfire
A clear, open space is the best place for a bonfire. Keep it at least 18 metres away from houses, fences, sheds, trees, and overhead cables to avoid any accidental fires. And remember, bonfires can grow quickly, so make sure everyone keeps at least 5 metres away from the flames.
Top tip: Have a bucket of water, a hose, or sand nearby in case you need to control the fire.
2. Only Buy Safe, Legal Fireworks
Buying fireworks from a reputable supplier is essential for fireworks safety. Always look for fireworks that have the CE mark, which indicates they meet UK safety standards. You should never attempt to make your own fireworks or buy from dodgy sellers – not only is it illegal, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. Children should always be supervised when around fireworks and sparklers.
Fireworks safety tip: Always read the instructions before using fireworks, and never light them indoors or near flammable materials.
3. Keep a Safe Distance
This one’s simple: stay back! Whether it’s a bonfire or fireworks, make sure everyone, including children, is standing well back before lighting any fireworks. Do you know the recommended safe distances? For fireworks, 25 metres is the ideal viewing distance, and for your bonfire, keeping at least 5 metres away is best.
Reminder: Always light fireworks at arm’s length with a long taper and never go back to a firework once it’s been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off.
Public Event Safety: How to Stay Safe in Large Gatherings
Attending a large public fireworks display or bonfire event is a fantastic way to enjoy Bonfire Night without the stress of setting off your own fireworks. Plus, public events are usually run by professionals who know how to keep things safe. But with big crowds comes the need for a few extra safety precautions. Are you attending a large event this year? Here’s how to enjoy the night while staying safe in large gatherings:
1. Follow the Event Organiser’s Instructions
Public events are well-organised, with safety zones and designated spectator areas, so make sure to follow any guidelines the organisers provide. They’ll often make announcements about crowd control or emergency exits—be sure to listen carefully so you know what to do in case of an emergency.
Top tip: If you’re attending with children, agree on a meeting point in case anyone gets separated in the crowd. It can be easy to lose sight of little ones when the fireworks start and the excitement builds!
2. Watch Your Step
Many public fireworks displays take place in parks or open spaces, which can be uneven or difficult to navigate, especially after dark. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and bring a torch or use your phone’s flashlight to help avoid trips or falls.
Pro tip: Glow Sticks are a fun, safe way to light up the night and keep track of kids. Plus, they add to the festive vibe!
3. Stay Calm and Move Slowly
With the excitement of the fireworks overhead, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. If the crowd starts to shift or move, stay calm and avoid rushing or pushing. Move slowly and keep an eye on your surroundings, especially if you’re with children or elderly family members.
Bonus tip: Identify key locations when you arrive, like first aid points and fire safety marshals, so you know where to go if you need help.
Why Public Events are a Great Option for Bonfire Night Safety
If you’re looking for a safer way to celebrate Guy Fawkes Night, public events are often the best choice. They’re managed by professionals, have dedicated safety personnel, and follow strict guidelines for Bonfire Night fire safety. You can relax and enjoy the display, knowing that experts are handling the more dangerous parts of the evening.
By following these Bonfire Night safety tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy the dazzling display of fireworks without any stress. So, find a public event near you, gather your loved ones, and have a blast—safely!
Fireworks Safety Tips: Keep the Fun Sparkling, Not Dangerous
The colourful bursts in the sky are undeniably the highlight of Guy Fawkes Night, but fireworks can be dangerous if not handled properly. Do you know how to handle fireworks safely? These fireworks safety tips will help make sure that the only explosions you experience are the fun ones:
- Always supervise children: Kids love fireworks, but they should never be left unsupervised when handling sparklers or watching fireworks. Did you know sparklers burn at over 1000°C? That’s hotter than a blowtorch!
- One at a time: Light fireworks one at a time, and make sure everyone knows to stand back.
- Never point fireworks at people or buildings, and avoid lighting them in windy conditions where things can get out of control quickly.
- Keep pets inside: Fireworks can be incredibly stressful for animals. If you’re wondering about pets and Bonfire Night safety, it’s best to keep them indoors, away from the noise and flashes.
Bonfire Night Fire Safety: Keeping Your Bonfire Under Control
Bonfires are a traditional part of Bonfire Night, but they can also pose serious risks if not managed properly. Here’s how to keep things under control:
1. Build Your Bonfire Safely
Stack dry wood in a pyramid shape for a steady burn. Never use flammable liquids like petrol to ignite the fire – not only is it dangerous, but it can also create harmful fumes. A controlled, steady fire is much easier to manage than a roaring inferno.
Outdoor fire safety tip: Keep the bonfire small and away from trees and bushes to prevent fire from spreading.
2. Never Leave a Bonfire Unattended
Make sure someone is supervising the bonfire at all times. Fires can grow unexpectedly, and it’s important to stay vigilant.
3. Extinguish the Bonfire Safely
Once the celebrations are over, make sure the fire is completely extinguished. Pour water or sand over the embers and check that everything is out before leaving the area. This might be one of the most important Bonfire safety tips, as many accidents happen after people have packed up and gone home.
How to Stay Safe on Bonfire Night: General Tips for the Evening
In addition to managing fireworks and bonfires, here are some general Bonfire Night safety tips to ensure everyone has a safe, fun night:
- Dress for the occasion: Wear non-flammable, close-fitting clothes to avoid catching sparks or embers.
- Use glow sticks or torches: It’s dark outside, so make sure everyone can see where they’re going. Glow Sticks are a fun and safe way to keep an eye on little ones. In fact, they’re a great idea to use around Halloween too—have you checked out our Halloween safety guide to ensure your spooky celebrations stay safe?
- Be aware of your surroundings: Whether you’re at a large public event or a smaller gathering, always stay alert to potential hazards and follow the event’s safety guidelines.
- Be respectful of the environment: After the event, clean up any debris from fireworks and the bonfire. It’s not just about safety – we all need to take care of our local community spaces.
A Safe and Spectacular Guy Fawkes Night Awaits!
By following these Bonfire Night safety tips, you can enjoy a night filled with brilliant fireworks, a roaring bonfire, and good times with friends and family – all while staying safe. Are you ready for a fun and safe night? Whether you’re hosting your own celebration or attending a public event, taking these simple precautions will ensure your night is memorable for all the right reasons.
If you’re looking for more festival safety tips and guides, be sure to explore SafetyHub for all the essential advice to keep every celebration safe and enjoyable!
