Bonfire Night is one of the highlights of autumn for many people, with children adoring the bangs and whizzes of the fireworks, and families enjoying a treat of hot dogs and candy floss.
Staying safe on Bonfire Night is something to be mindful of, however. Fireworks, sparklers and bonfires can be hazardous if not treated with respect. Hundreds of accidents with fireworks happen every year on and around the 5th November, and also at Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year when fireworks are enjoyed into the night.
Experts agree that one of the safest ways to enjoy fireworks is by attending a public fireworks display, of which there are many.
Clothing
Noise cancelling headphones can help children who are scared by the fireworks and can protect a child from loud noises on Guy Fawkes Night. Stay well back from bonfires or any flames and avoid loose clothing that could be a hazard around fire.
Sparkler safety
Never give a sparkler to an under 5, according to safety advice, and then ask yourself if a child over 5 can hold a sparkler safely and stay safe until it burns out. Don’t use outdoor sparklers indoors and never carry a baby while you are holding a sparkler.
Sparklers burn brightly and extremely hot – accidents with sparklers can result in severe burns, which is why following safety advice is essential:
If you are planning a fireworks party at home, visit The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents’ website for more in-depth advice, here – https://www.rospa.com/home-safety/advice/fireworks-safety/
If you or your child have asthma, Asthma UK has advice for planning for Bonfire Night, here – https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/living-with-asthma/seasonal-celebrations/bonfire-night/