October 12, 2011

Firework Safety

I am quite sure that from being very small children, you will have been made aware of the ‘FIREWORKS CODE’.

Follow the Fireworks Code

Keep fireworks in a closed box.

Follow the instructions on each firework.

Light all fireworks at arms length.

Stand well back.

Never go back to a lit firework.

Never put fireworks in your pocket.

Never throw fireworks.

Keep Pets indoors (check our previous piece on pets).

Use only BS 7114 Fireworks.

Check this when you are buying. All reputable dealers will only sell fireworks to this standard and if you are ever offered any others leave them alone! All our fireworks are BS 7114 classified.

Take special care with sparklers

Sparklers can be beautiful and enjoyable for young children but adults must be aware of their potential. Sparklers are the cause of a disproportionate number of injuries but only a few simple precautions are necessary.

Always supervise children with sparklers.

Teach them to hold the sparkler at arms length, but not near anyone else.

Sparklers are not for the under 5s. They will be labelled as such and it is your responsibility.

Have a container of water handy, big enough for the spent sparkler. Dump the sparkler in it as soon as it goes out.

Bonfires and fireworks are a fun way of celebrating but every year hundreds of children are taken to hospital after an accident. More accidents happen at home than anywhere else and children are most at risk.

If you are planning a home display, follow the safety tips below to make sure you have a safe celebration.

Before the display

Make sure you have read the instructions on your fireworks and have all the equipment you need ready.

If you are having a bonfire make sure it is well away from houses, trees, hedges, fences, sheds. Build it carefully so that it is not likely to topple over when lit. Use firelighters to get it going – never use petrol or paraffin even if it seems slow to start.

During the display

Choose one person to be responsible for your fireworks. That person should not drink any alcohol before or during the display.

Supervise children and make sure they are standing well back from the Fireworks.

Light fireworks one at a time using a taper held at arm’s length. Remind yourself of instructions using a torch.

Keep unused fireworks in a metal box with the lid closed.

Never return to a lit firework.

First Aid Advice

Advice on first aid can be obtained from:
St John Ambulance. See www.sja.org.uk or call 08700 10 49 50
British Red Cross. See www.redcross.org.uk or call 020 7235 5454
If you need any further advice about what fireworks will best suit your requirements, please feel free to contact us.