Remember, remember the 5thof November, gunpowder, treason and plot. Bonfire night is just around the corner and you’re sure to be watching them with the family. Whether going to a local display or launching your own at a house party, fireworks are beautiful, but it’s important to remember that they are dangerous too, so safety is a high priority.
Common sense goes a long way when playing with fire and volatile materials such as gunpowder, but here are a few extra tips to make sure you stay safe for this bright and sparkly evening:
Fireworks
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Never play with fireworks as they are extremely dangerous.
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Only adults should touch fireworks.
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Stand well back from where the fireworks are being lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off yet it can still explode.
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Before use, keep the fireworks in a closed box in a dry area.
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Follow the instructions given with each firework. Don’t assume all types are the same.
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Light at arm’s length.
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Never go back to a lit firework if it hasn’t fired as it is supposed to.
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Don’t put them in your pocket; lit or not.
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Never throw fireworks.
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Keep pets indoors as the noise and light can scare them.
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Only buy BS 7114 fireworks. This is the standard that all fireworks should abide by. You can check this before buying as it should be listed on the packaging. If they are not up to this standard they could well be dangerous.
Sparklers
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Wear gloves.
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Hold at arm’s length well away from the body.
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When the sparkler goes out put it in a bucket of water or sand. Although it has gone out it will still be extremely warm and could burn you.
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Children should be supervised at all times while using sparklers.
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Don’t give a sparkler to little ones under 5. The packet will be labelled saying this.
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Never pick up a sparkler off the floor.
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Light sparklers one at a time.
Alternatives to fireworks
Not all children like fireworks. The bright lights and loud noises can be scary, especially for little ones. So, rather than dragging them along to a display take part in fun family friendly activities instead and distract your child from their fear. Here are some suggestions:
Indoor soft play: Play equipment is a great way of keeping your child active and occupied. Plus running around in a safe and friendly environment is good for your child’s mental and physical health. It’s fun too!
Cinema: Is there a film your child’s been dying to see? Take them on bonfire night and the film will drown out the pops and bangs of the fireworks. Stock up on popcorn and nibbles, sit back and enjoy! Plus you won’t get all wet and muddy in the cinema so mum will be happy.
Games: Use the bangs and pops of the fireworks to play a fun game at home! If you have sons you could pretend you are at war, dress up in action man fancy dress and role play throughout the evening. You could pretend that the fireworks are falling bombs.
Alternatively throw a tea party and remove the inside of some party poppers. Pull the string at the same time the firework goes off and the explosion will simulate the sound of the popper. Eat plenty of cake and play some party tunes, this will help distract from the chaos outside.
Catherine wheels, bangers and rockets: whatever your favourite firework is and whatever you have planned this year, be safe and enjoy yourself. After all, Bonfire night only comes once a year!