Fireworks
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The majority of accidents occur at family or private parties and are caused through the misuse of fireworks, failing to observe the firework code (a copy of which is enclosed with every box of fireworks) and the consumption of alcohol.
Since the festivities inevitably result in a considerable increase in the number of fire calls the public are asked to co-operate by adhering to the following points: | |
Fireworks
- Buy fireworks marked BS 7114.
- Keep fireworks in a closed metal box.
- Use a torch to read the instructions on each firework.
- Light them at arm's length using a taper.
- Stand well back.
Never
- Never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode.
- Never put fireworks in your pocket.
- Never throw fireworks.
- Never let children handle fireworks.
| | Sparklers
- Light sparklers one at a time.
- Wear gloves.
- Never give sparklers to child under 5.
- Dispose of in a bucket of water.
- Always supervise children around fireworks.
Remember
- Keep pets indoors as they dislike the loud bangs.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing or scarfs in case they catch fire!
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Legislation and you - did you know?
- Generally you can't set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am except on 5th November when you can set them off until midnight, and then on New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali when they can be set off until 1am.
- You must be over 18 to buy fireworks, except for caps, cracker snaps, novelty matches, party poppers, serpents and throwdowns where the legal age of purchase is 16.
- It is an offence to throw or set off fireworks in a street or public place and it is also illegal for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in public.
- It is an offence for people who aren't firework professionals to buy and possess category 4 fireworks. These are only to be used at public displays by firework professionals.
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For further Fire Safety information and advice contact:
The Fire Safety Helpline on 01926 466282
For further information visit Directgov Website
Download the Firework Code
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