Guide: Staying safe on Bonfire Night

Fireworks night can be dangerous if the right precautions aren't taken Credit: PA

Bonfire Night is one of the most popular celebrations on the calendar, with firework displays and bonfire events.

But emergency services are warning people to make sure they stay safe if holding their own firework or bonfire events.

Last year, ambulances dealt with a range of injuries including hand injuries caused to people who were holding fireworks when they exploded, burns from bonfires and serious cases where members of the public used petrol or other accelerants on bonfires.

Here are a few tips from West Midlands Ambulance Service on how to carry out a fireworks and bonfire evening safely:

  • Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114 – it means they conform to British safety Standards

  • Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

  • Keep fireworks in a closed box.

  • Light at arm's length, using a taper.

  • Stand well back.

  • Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.

  • Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.

  • Never give sparklers to a child under five.

  • Keep pets indoors.

Fireworks can be dangerous if not used safely Credit: PA

It's important to have the right sort of equipment with you to help deal with an emergency when lighting a bonfire or setting off fireworks. Here are a few things you might want to get ahead of Bonfire Night:

  • Torch for checking instructions in the dark

  • Bucket of water

  • Eye protection and gloves

  • Bucket of soft earth to stick fireworks in

  • Suitable supports for Catherine Wheels, proper launchers for rockets

  • Fire extinguisher