Total Guide to Staying Safe on Bonfire Night

Take a look at our helpful firework safety tips if you're organising your own firework display or bonfire for family and friends, we know how important it is to keep everybody safe, pets included!

Fireworks Storage

If you've bought fireworks a good few weeks ahead of the big day make sure that you store them in a safe dry place until they’re needed. Fireworks should always be stored in a closed metal box and kept well away from open flames and children.

Setting Off Fireworks

You should keep a bucket of water handy just in case you need to put out any small fires or need somewhere to store used sparklers. We hate to state the obvious but don’t get too caught up in the celebrations. It's a wise idea to steer clear of alcohol until after the display especially if you're the one responsible for lighting the fireworks. Drinking and fireworks is a recipe for disaster.

Always make sure you read the instructions carefully before you light each firework. Fireworks such as Catherine wheels and rockets require different supports and launchers. Remember to light fireworks at arm's length using a taper and never return to a lit firework.

Sparkler Safety

Sparklers are one of the most popular types of firework, but also one of the most dangerous, so it's important to know how to stay safe around them this Bonfire Night. You should always make sure to protect your hands by wearing gloves, this’ll keep your fingers safe from any stray sparks. Light sparklers one at a time and always supervise children with sparklers never giving one any children.

Fireworks & Pets

Fireworks are enjoyed year after year by people but can be a source of fear for many animals. You should never punish or fuss over your pet when it's scared as this will only make things worse in the long run.

Make sure your dog or cat always has somewhere to hide if he or she wants to and has access to this place at all times. For example this could be under some furniture or in a cupboard.

A good tip is to close windows and curtains at night fall and put on music to muffle the sound of fireworks.

Bonfire Night safety

There are a few things you'll need to consider before you build a bonfire in your back garden. It’s really not as simple as throwing on your wellies and getting out your matches.

Before Lighting Your Bonfire

To reduce the chances of your neighbors complaining about the smoke, you might want to give them a little heads up, after all it's only polite to let them know about your plans in advance, you could even invite them over to join.

Always remember to choose an open spot for your bonfire and not to build it too close to any sheds, fences, trees or more importantly your house!  It’s also best to source dry materials to build your bonfire with and to avoid using damp wood, as this will only produce more smoke when it burns.

Controlling Your Bonfire

Once you have a steady burning bonfire, make sure to keep a close eye on it, never leaving it unattended. Just in case the bonfire gets out of control, remember to keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.

Putting Out Your Bonfire

Slowly but surely your bonfire will start to simmer down, to avoid a fire hazard it's really important to make sure that the flames have completely gone out before you leave it. Stop your bonfire from re-igniting by spraying the remaining embers with water.