Firework Safety
Your go-to source for firework safety!
Securing your Fireworks (Roman Candles)
This Firework Safety Series shows you an alternative way of SECURING ROMAN CANDLES.
Securing your Fireworks (Fountains)
A very simple way of SECURING FIREWORK FOUNTAINS in this video from our Firework Safety…
Securing your Fireworks (Rockets)
Why is this tube in my pack of rockets? This Firework Safety Series video helps…
Securing your Fireworks (Bricks)
SECURING YOUR FIREWORKS WITH BRICKS on hard standing ground is very important
The Importance of Firework Safety
Fireworks are fun and exciting but remember they are explosives! They should be treated with care, but don’t let that put you off using them. If handled correctly you probably have more chance of hurting yourself falling down the stairs!
For safety around fireworks, always wear protective clothing, goggles, hard hat and gloves are a must, for extra protection you might want to invest in probhan (fire retardant) overalls, these can be obtained from many outlets for as little as £15-£20.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fireworks safety code in the UK?
The Fireworks Safety Code is a set of guidelines designed by the British Fireworks Association which ensures fireworks are used safely and responsibly. Key points include:
- Only buy CE-marked fireworks from a licensed seller
- Follow the instructions carefully on each firework
- Keep fireworks in a closed box
- Light fireworks at arms length
- Always supervise children and never allow them to handle fireworks
- Never throw fireworks or put them in your pocket
For a detailed list of the fireworks code check out the BFA Fireworks Code.
What time can fireworks be let off in the UK?
In the UK, fireworks are generally restricted to 7 am – 11 pm, with the following exceptions:
- Bonfire Night: Permitted until midnight
- New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year: Permitted until 1 am
What is the recommended safety area for fireworks?
Minimum 25 metres more if space allows. Ideally 50 metres.
How big does the display area have to be?
Place smaller items at the front of this area and larger cakes and rockets towards the back. Remember to angle all fireworks towards the fall out area.
What is the firework fall out area?
You should have an adequate fall out area of 30-50 metres.
How should I prepare myself?
For safety around fireworks, always wear protective clothing, goggles, hard hat and gloves are a must, for extra protection you might want to invest in probhan (fire retardant) overalls, these can be obtained from many outlets for as little as £15-£20.
If you are lighting your fireworks one at a time, keep your fireworks in a closed, fireproof container and take them out as you need them, DON’T PUT FIREWORKS IN YOUR POCKETS leaving them in the open could mean sparks from lit fireworks igniting them. You should make sure that no one can wander into the firing area, use rope or another type of barrier if you have to.
Designate someone as a marshall if you haven’t already to keep an eye on your audience. Make sure you have a torch to read the instructions on the fireworks again. NEVER read the instructions with a naked flame! Fire extinguishers, buckets of sand or water should be available.
When lighting your fireworks only use a portfire or other safety lighter attached to a stick to distance you from the firework, you should never use lighters or matches, always light the firework at arms length. Once lit, retire to a safe distance.
NEVER RETURN TO A LIT FIREWORK, EVEN IF YOU THINK ITS NOT LIT.
What should you do if a firework doesn't go off?
If a firework fails to go off, do not approach it. Instead follow these safety steps:
Wait at least 15-20 minutes before going near the firework
Do not attempt to relight as it may still be live and could go off unexpectedly
Dispose of it safely
Report faulty fireworks to retailer