Fireworks: dos and don'ts

Fireworks and sparklers

• Fireworks require a licence - except indoor fireworks and sparklers.

• It is illegal to possess, purchase, sell, handle or use fireworks except under licence.

• Only adults should light or handle fireworks.

• Never ever go back to a firework once lit - even if it does not go off.

• When watching fireworks, stand well back.

• It is an offence to throw fireworks in the street or other public places.

• Always supervise children around fireworks.

• Never give sparklers to children under the age of five.

• Light sparklers one at time and always wear gloves.

• Keep a bucket of water close by and put sparklers in it when they go out.

• You can be fined up to 5,000 for breaking the law in relation to fireworks.

Bonfire dos and don’ts

• Always make sure the bonfire is located away from houses, buildings and overhead cables.

• Always keep the bonfire to a manageable size - the bigger the fire the bigger the risk.

• Never sleep in a makeshift hut while the bonfire is being built. This could be fatal if the fire is lit prematurely.

• Never use petrol or paraffin to light the bonfire. Domestic firelighters are safer.

• Never use old tyres, tar or scrap rubber on the bonfire. Avoid using foam-filled furniture, aerosols, gas cylinders and paint. Uncontrolled burning of these substances can affect air and water quality and harm the environment.