Firework Code and Safety Tips
There are three types of firework available to the public.
Category F1 – Indoor Fireworks.
Category F2 – Garden Fireworks.
Category F3 – Larger Garden / Display Fireworks.
Category F2 Fireworks are designed to be used in smaller gardens and have a minimum safety distance of 8 meters.
Category F3 Fireworks are generally larger and you need a minimum of 25 meters safe distance between the fireworks and the spectators. We recommend an ever bigger distance for some of the larger Category F3 items. This isn’t just for safety thought, if you stand too close to larger fireworks you can’t appreciate them as well.
Only adults should deal with setting up firework displays, the lighting of fireworks and the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used (and remember, alcohol and fireworks don’t mix!). Children and young people should be supervised, and watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance. Follow these top 10 tips for a safer fireworks party:
- Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm
- Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time
- Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
- Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit
- Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
- Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
- Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
- Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
Sparkler safety
Sparklers are often viewed as being harmless but they burn at fierce temperatures, equivalent to a welding torch. Follow these top tips for sparkler safety:
- It is recommended that sparklers are not given to under-5s
- Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves
- Hold sparklers at arm’s length while being lit and light them one at a time
- Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people
- Never hold a baby in your arms while you are holding a sparkler
- When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water.
Bonfire safety
- One person should be responsible for the bonfire and children should be supervised
- Choose a site away from wooden fences, sheds and where children will be playing
- Never pour petrol, paraffin or meths on to a fire – it’s safer to use fire lighters to prevent flare-ups
- Keep a bucket of water handy in case of an accident
- Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair
- After the party, pour water on the fire, rather than leaving it to burn out.