Why do we celebrate Guy Fawkes night?
Guy Fawkes night – also known as bonfire night – is celebrated every year on 5 November, remembering the failure of the Gunpowder plot of 1605. This year will be the 415th anniversary of the Gunpowder plot.
What does the law say?
If you’re planning to do your own fireworks display, there are 3 things you should remember:
- Make sure you don’t set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places
- Make sure you don’t do any more fireworks after 11pm
- Follow government guidelines around social distancing, coronavirus restrictions for your area until Wednesday 4 November and new national lockdown measures from Thursday 5 November.
Be considerate of your neighbours
Although you’re not allowed to light bonfires or let off fireworks in communal areas of A2Dominion properties (this includes shared gardens and courtyards), you can do so on your own property.
Be careful when you’re handling fireworks
Fireworks can be dangerous if not used safely. Make sure you always have a bucket of water on hand just in case. Ensure you light them using a longer lighting device, at an arm’s length and pointing them away from buildings or other people. Don’t use a cigarette lighter or matches to do this and don’t go near a firework once it’s lit as it could still explode. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from them. Shut your windows and doors so lit fireworks don’t accidentally end up inside your home. Sparklers can get extremely hot, which means they’re not suitable for children under 5, and shouldn’t be used indoors.
How can I be safe with bonfires?
If you decide to do a bonfire, make sure you have enough space to do so. Make sure you have a bucket of water or a hose pipe on hand in case the fire gets out of control. Once you have finished with your bonfire never leave a burning or smouldering fire unattended as it can easily reignite. Don’t light the fires using flammable liquids, and don’t throw fireworks onto it.
Taking simple steps like this will make sure you have a fun but safe bonfire night. You can find more fire safety tips on our website.