Firework safety
Fireworks are a traditional part of enjoying celebrations but they are the cause of many serious accidents every year. The safest way to enjoy them is to go to a professionally organised event.
For advice about firework safety, please visit the following websites:
Retailers selling fireworks must be registered with Hertfordshire County Council Trading Standards who investigate problems with unsafe products.
New legislation to deal with the safety and anti-social use of fireworks has recently been introduced. it is now an offence, which can result in a fine of up to £5,000 (and/or a prison sentence), to:
- supply (which includes retail sale, unsafe fireworks
- sell fireworks to persons under the age of 18
- sell fireworks all year round without a licence to supply
- possess a category 4 firework if other than a fireworks professional
- possess fireworks in a public place if under the age of 18
- set fireworks off after 11pm
Please see the Department of Trade and Industry website for information on the regulations, which will be enforced by Hertfordshire Trading Standards and the police.
If you buy fireworks, always make sure they conform to British Standards. This means that they should have BS 7114 clearly marked on the box. Also ensure that they are clearly marked for their intended use 'Indoor, Garden or Display'
- Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin
- Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately
- Never put fireworks in your pocket
- Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp never use a naked flame
- Light fireworks at arms length using a taper or a firework lighter
- Stand well back and never return to a firework after it has been lit, it could explode in your face
- Ensure that all children with fireworks are well supervised
- Never throw fireworks
- Keep all pets and animals indoors
- Take care of sparklers, wear gloves to hold them and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished
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