This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Fireworks advice ahead of bonfire weekend
04/11/2022
Attending a professionally organised public display is the safest way to enjoy the night
Fireworks will light the skies above North Oxfordshire this weekend, but ahead of the displays Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team are reminding us of the steps we should take to reduce the risk of accidents.
They say the safest and most enjoyable way to celebrate is to attend a professionally organised public event.
For those who do wish to have their own display the law states it is an offence to let fireworks off between 11pm and 7am. However on Saturday (November 5) the cut off is later – at midnight.
It is also an offence to set off fireworks in a public place.
Councillor Jenny Hannaby, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services and Safety, said: “Organised fireworks displays are more fun, cheaper and safer than hosting your own fireworks or bonfire party. However, if you are planning on using fireworks for a private event, please follow the fireworks safety code.
“Remember, only buy fireworks from a reputable retailer. Before purchasing, seek advice on the suitability of fireworks for the space available, and check that they meet current safety standards.”
For anyone planning on having their own fireworks display the trading standards team offers the following advice:
- Only buy fireworks that are UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed), CE or BS EN 15947 marked compliant.
- Buy from reputable and licensed shops and ask advice before buying.
- Keep fireworks in a closed, metal box.
- Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
- Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
- Never return to a firework that has not gone off, and never throw used or unused fireworks onto a bonfire.
- Never drink alcohol while lighting a bonfire or setting off fireworks.
- Always supervise children and don’t give sparklers to a child under five.
- Keep the bonfire at least 18 metres away from houses, trees and hedges. There should be a barrier around the bonfire to keep spectators five metres away.
- Before lighting a bonfire, check it is stable and that there are no children or animals inside.
- Only burn dry wood. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire and think about the direction of smoke travel.
- Keep some buckets of water nearby.
- Have consideration for those around you, including notifying neighbours who may have pets or farm animals. People are more likely to plan to protect pets and other animals if fireworks are let off on traditional dates.
- Consider where fireworks and debris might fall, ensuring safety distances are provided for people to keep safe. Safety distances are provided on each firework label or package. These are minimum distances, so follow instructions.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam