Safety
Fireworks should only be purchased from reputable suppliers that you are confident will still be around after your display – it is not advisable to buy from door to door sellers or from car boot sales.
Only purchase fireworks that comply with British Standard – BS7114: part2: 1988. Category 2 fireworks are typical ‘garden fireworks’ requiring a spectator safety distance of 5 metres. Category 3 fireworks are ‘display type fireworks’ and tend to be larger, requiring a safety distance of 25 metres. (Our display packs will rarely, if ever, include category 2 fireworks).
Before buying fireworks, it is useful to carefully consider your display requirements – particularly with regards to budget, display duration, crowd size, site area and whether to include ground and aerial effects or just aerial fireworks. (We will be more than happy to advise you in any aspect of your display, should you wish).
Once purchased, your fireworks should be stored in a safe, dry area away from children, animals and naked flames. It is useful that the display ‘firer’ takes this time to read the safety instructions on the fireworks and to become familiar with various aspects of the fireworks – such as fuse location, shape and size, packaging etc.
The Law
Fireworks may be purchased and used at any time of the year. However, fireworks can only be used between the hours of 7am and 11pm. The 11pm ‘curfew’ is extended to midnight on November 5th, from 11pm to 1am on New Year’s Eve and from 11pm to 1am on the first day of the Chinese New Year and on Diwali day.
Adult Fireworks must not be sold to, or possessed by any persons under 18 years of age. (We strictly abide by this law).
You do not have to have a special licence or permission from the authorities for firework displays. However, it is always advisable to notify the local police and fire service as a matter of courtesy and good practice.
Planning for safety and control are paramount to the success of any display. One person should take overall responsibility for ensuring that all key issues are considered and actioned. Subject matters can include –
- The appointment of one or more firers - This key responsibility should only be undertaken by able-bodied people who are capable and confident in their role. Avoid any more than two firers, as communication and co-ordination is particularly important throughout the display.
- Stewards – Another very important role to ensure spectator safety and control. The number of stewards will depend upon crowd size and site location.
- Site Location – It is important that the chosen site can accommodate the expected crowd number whilst maintaining a safe distance from the fireworks. Hazards such as overhead cables and trees must also be avoided.
- Firework Set-up – Consideration must be given to how the fireworks will be laid out and secured (to prevent falling over). If the fireworks are to be set out early then the risk of rain should also be taken into consideration. (We will be more than happy to advise on simple measures that can be taken with respect to this).
- Additional Equipment – Protective clothing, torches, lighters etc are basics that should not be overlooked.