Bonfire and firework displays should be enjoyable and spectacular occasions. However, each year hundreds of people are injured through the misuse of fireworks, causing injuries to hands, eyes, and face. Good planning is essential for firework displays of any size.
People are encouraged to only attend locally organised bonfire and firework displays:
View the current list of registered events in the District
We advise against holding your own firework display at home, this is because they often result in accidents. Anyone who does decide to have fireworks at home should remember:
Don't be a fool with fireworks...
Always remember to follow the Fireworks Code:
- Only buy fireworks that comply with current safety standards. All fireworks offered for sale in the UK must carry a CE mark (All fireworks supplied by British Firework Association (BFA) members are tested to conform to the current safety standards. If you require more information, contact the seller or any member of the BFA.
- Always keep fireworks in a closed box. Take them out one at a time and close the box.
- Never put fireworks in your pocket.
- Be considerate. Let your neighbours know you will be having a display, especially if they are elderly, or they have pets or children.
- Avoid setting fireworks off late at night, particularly if it is a school-night.
- Ensure your pets are safe.
- Carefully follow the instructions on EACH firework.
- Never go back to a lit firework unless the instructions advise otherwise.
- Never throw fireworks; it is dangerous.
- Light fireworks one at a time, at the end of the fuse, and at arm’s length.
- Light sparklers one at a time and wear suitable gloves, even when lighting them.
- Never give sparklers to a child under the age of 5.
- Never throw spent fireworks on a bonfire.
Keep Kids Safe
We want children to enjoy fireworks but they need to know that they can be dangerous if they are not used properly.
Children including babies and toddlers, suffer over half of all firework injuries. Children's scars may heal but the trauma for them and their parents can last for years.
Keep animals safe and be mindful of pets at other homes
You should take precautions to protect your pets during the times of the year when fireworks are likely to be set off. The RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) provides helpful advice.
Sparklers
Did you know that sparklers get five times hotter than cooking oil? Sparklers are not toys and should never be given to a child under five.
Please ensure to also view our fireworks guidance.
Voluntary firework display registration scheme
To help everyone enjoy a happy, accident free event, we have introduced a free voluntary firework display registration scheme which will help organisers of such events to plan and operate a safe firework or bonfire display.
Apply to register an event
You can download an application form to apply for registration.
Once a completed application form is received, an appointment will be made to carry out an advisory site visit and some recommendations for improvement may be provided.
If everything is satisfactory and the necessary works have been completed, applications will be issued with a certificate of registration.