Firework Safety

FIREWORK SAFETY

 

Here at Fireworks Swansea and The Firework Hut, safety is at the forefront of everything that we do. Whilst fireworks provide fantastic entertainment, there are obvious risks if they are not used or handled correctly. We have compiled this guide to fire safety so that you can keep yourselves and your family safe whilst also enjoying every minute.

 

Firework Safety Tips

Only adults should deal with setting up firework displays and the lighting of fireworks and the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used (and remember, alcohol and fireworks don’t mix!). Children and young people should be supervised, and watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance. Follow these top 10 tips for a safer fireworks party:

1. 1. Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and check the time you can legally set off fireworks
   2. In England, Scotland and Wales only buy fireworks which carry the CE or UKCA marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the CE symbol. You may also see the UKNI mark along with the CE symbol. Keep your fireworks in a closed box, and use them one at a time
   3. Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
   4. Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and make sure you stand well back
   5. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
   6. Never return to a firework once it has been lit
   7. Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
   8. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from any spectators
   9. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
   10. Make sure that the fire is out and that surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Bonfire Safety

We would urge people to think twice about having a bonfire. 

Lighting a bonfire in a garden presents significant risks to residents if they get out of hand. Not only this, but the smoke can also aggravate neighbours with any respiratory problems.  

If you do decide to have a bonfire, please follow our top five tips: 

1. Build your bonfire well clear of buildings and garden sheds, fences and hedges 
2. Never use flammable liquids to start a bonfire, and never burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans or paint tins, foam furniture, or batteries 
3. Don’t leave bonfires unattended. An adult should supervise it until it has burnt out. If it has to be left, make sure that you damp it down with plenty of water 
4. Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of fire spread
5. Check the weather and avoid lighting bonfires in high winds. 

Fireworks And The Law

All of our fireworks conform to CE & BS 7114 Part 2: 1988 which is the quality standard for fireworks in the UK. Beware of fireworks from untrustworthy sources.

Sparkler Safety

Sparklers are often viewed as being harmless but they burn at fierce temperatures which can be equivalent to a welding torch. Ensure that you follow these top tips for sparkler safety:

• It is recommended that sparklers are not given to under-5s
• Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves at all times
• Hold sparklers at arm’s length while being lit and light them one at a time
• Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people
• Never hold a baby in your arms while you are holding a sparkler
• When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water.

Firework Categories

All fireworks on sale to the public have to be extensively tested and classified as either Category F2 or F3. These classifications also impose a noise limit. They outline how much space should be given when using them, and ensure the firework has a safety fuse and clear instructions on the label.

• Category F1 refers to fireworks which pose a minimal hazard and this classification is usually given to indoor fireworks
• F2 items (sometimes known as garden fireworks) require the smallest distance, which is eight metres to 15 metres
• F3 items (sometimes known as display fireworks) require the greatest distance which is at least 25 metres.

Not all fireworks in these categories will be suitable for every garden. It is vital to check the distances required and all of the instructions on Category F2 and F3 fireworks as it may not be possible to meet the distance requirements in a domestic garden.

• F4 fireworks (sometimes known as industrial fireworks) are for professional use only at organised displays. These can include aerial shells and other items that are banned for sale to the public. Many category F4 fireworks are supplied without a fuse and are extremely dangerous to the untrained. If you are not a licensed professional and you are offered Category F4 fireworks, these are being sold to you illegally.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, you cannot purchase category F2, F3 or F4 fireworks unless you hold a fireworks licence. The licence application form is only available from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the appropriate fee must be paid before the licence is issued.

 

Have Fun and stay safe!