Fireworks over the festive season and keeping yourself safe
Use fireworks safely
This festive season will see people across the borough celebrating Christmas and ringing in the New Year. If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, remember while they can be a lot of fun, to take extra care, plan ahead and ALWAYS follow the Firework Code.
Before you start
Only buy fireworks that have a CE mark, from licenced retailers. Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks, always keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
Lighting fireworks
Read and follow the instructions on each firework, using a torch if necessary. Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back. Always supervise children around fireworks and never return to a firework once it has been lit.
Sparkler safety
Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves. Keep a bucket of water close by and never give sparklers to a child under five years old.
Look out for others
Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them. Don’t let off fireworks after 11pm and always keep pets indoors (read more about fireworks and pets below).
Building a bonfire?
Build the bonfire away from sheds, fences and trees and never use paraffin or petrol. Make sure that the bonfire is out, and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
Help protect animals from the effects of fireworks
The unpredictable, loud, and high-intensity noises that many fireworks make can cause fear and distress in pets, livestock, and wildlife. In the worst cases, animals require behavioural therapies and drug treatments for their fear responses, and they may never recover fully.
Barnet Council recently passed a motion with updated guidance on protecting animals from the effects of fireworks, stating that, where possible, all public firework displays in Barnet should also be advertised in advance of the event, enabling residents to again take precautions for their pets. Residents should also give their neighbours reasonable advance notice if they are planning to host a private firework display, so that arrangements can be made regarding the wellbeing of pets and livestock.
AND REMEMBER! Wherever possible, attend an organised display and whether organised or not make sure to observe COVID-19 guidelines.
For more information on staying safe with fireworks, visit london-fire.gov.uk