When Birthday Fireworks Go Sideways

A birthday bash in Dorset took an unexpected turn last month when a garden firework tipped mid-burst and gave the guest of honour more than just a candle to blow out. Karen Wells, 54, from Wareham, ended up in hospital with a scorched wrist after a fountain firework toppled over and sprayed her arm at close range. 

It was supposed to be the grand finale of an intimate back garden celebration with friends and family. But as Karen struck the match and stepped back, the firework wobbled—then tipped—and fired a stream of sparks sideways instead of skyward. In seconds, the celebration gave way to chaos.

“It tipped so fast I didn’t even have time to move,” she said. “It just kept burning even after I moved away.”

Karen was rushed to hospital and treated for painful superficial burns before being discharged later that night. She’s recovered at home—birthday balloons deflated, but thankfully in one piece.

It’s Not About Firework Size—It’s About Firework Setup

This isn’t a horror story meant to put you off lighting up your next garden gathering. It’s a reminder that even small fireworks pack serious power. You don’t need a mega-rocket or a pyro finale to end up in hot water—just a moment of instability or a wobble on uneven ground.

As we cover in Part 18 of our Ultimate Guide to At-Home Firework Displays, proper setup is everything. Lighting a firework safely doesn’t take a degree in pyrotechnics—it just takes a bit of preparation, a steady surface, and a willingness to read the label (yes, even for the “easy” ones).

Some key tips from the pros:

• Always place fireworks on solid, level ground like a patio or paving stones.

• Use bricks, blocks, or a proper launch base to stop anything from tipping.

• Light at arm’s length using a portfire—no leaning in with a cigarette lighter, thanks.

• Keep clear on all sides—not just behind the fuse—just in case it goes rogue.

• Wear protective clothing if you’re the one doing the honours.

These aren’t just “nice to do” things—they’re what stand between you and a late-night trip to A&E.

Buying the Right Fireworks for the Right Job

Another important point? Buying quality fireworks from a trusted source. Not all fireworks are created equal, and the more "budget-friendly" items you buy the more you're opening yourself up to substandard fireworks which can be dangerous.

Our Ultimate Guide to Buying Fireworks in the UK breaks down how to choose fireworks that suit your space, your crowd, and your confidence level. Whether you’re after quiet sparklers or show-stopping rockets, the key is to buy from a reputable supplier that knows what they’re doing (hi, that’s us).

At Epic Fireworks, we stock a huge range of professional-level fireworks at unbeatable prices—minus the worry. Every item is tested, CE-marked, and backed by real-world experience, so you know exactly what you're getting and how to use it.

A Better (and Safer) Birthday Bash

Karen’s night didn’t end the way she hoped—but her story is a good reminder for all of us. Fireworks are incredible when they’re used properly. They bring excitement and a real wow-factor to any occasion. But just like candles and cake, they need the right setup to avoid an unexpected sizzle.

So if you're planning a celebration, whether it’s a birthday, a BBQ, or a “just because” night under the stars, give your fireworks the same care you’d give the playlist or the party snacks. Set them up right, light them properly, and keep the excitement in the sky—not in A&E.

Need help choosing the right fireworks for your party? We're here for that too. Let's make sure your big night ends with cheers—not singed sleeves.

Put On Your Own Epic Fireworks Display

At Epic Fireworks, we’re your go-to for everything you need to put on an awesome fireworks display. Whether it’s for Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Diwali, weddings or any special occasion, we’ve got you covered with an extensive range of fireworks, from sparklers and fountains to show-stopping barrages and rockets.

Looking for something easy but still impressive?

Our DIY display packs come with everything you need to create a stunning show, with easy-to-follow instructions to help you fire like a pro. Plus, our fireworks are up to 5 times more powerful than supermarket fireworks so you'll be getting more bang for your buck, literally!

Shop our full range of fireworks today