Planning to put up a firework display? Make sure you keep your home and children safe.
Here are a few tips on how you can enjoy a safe firework display and keep within the law.
Know the law
You may not let off fireworks after 11pm, except on:
- Bonfire Night (midnight)
- Diwali
- New Year
- Chinese New Year (1am).
It is also an offence to set off fireworks in the street. Children under 18 are not allowed to buy fireworks, or carry fireworks in public.
What you will need
- fireworks that conform to British Standards (BS 7114), and suitable for the size of your garden
- eye protection and gloves
- bucket of water
- soft earth (to stick fireworks in)
- suitable supports or launchers
- torch for checking instructions.
What to do
Inform the neighbours before you plan the display, and appoint one adult to be in charge. Do take all the necessary safety precautions, for example:
- do not drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
- light fireworks at arm's length
- stand well back
- make sure children are well supervised
- never throw fireworks
- never re-use a firework that failed to ignite
- collect used fireworks with gloves or tongs
- keep pets indoors.
Further information
Detailed safety information is available from the Department for Trade and Industry's (DTI) fireworks site.
Do download a copy of the fireworks safety code and read it carefully before planning a firework display.
Our health and safety team may also be able to help with advice and information: ring 020 8921 8117 or email health@greenwich.gov.uk.
Large public displays
If you are organising a firework display for the general public, you need to know about your responsibilities to the public and your staff.
Planning a large firework display: DTI guidance notes on the Firework Safety website.
Related link
Selling fireworks: important information for traders