What do I have to do by law?
If you’re planning to do your own fireworks display, you should remember the following:
- Make sure you don’t set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places
- Make sure your fireworks display ends by midnight
Be considerate of your neighbours and pets
Please be aware that you’re not allowed to light bonfires or let off fireworks in communal areas of A2Dominion properties. This includes shared gardens and courtyards, however you can do so on your own property if you have a garden.
By law, you must not set off any fireworks after midnight on bonfire night, enabling you and your neighbours to get a good night’s sleep. Also keep pets indoors during firework displays as the noise can damage their ears and frighten them.
Handle fireworks carefully
Fireworks can be dangerous if not used safely, so we’ve put together a few tips for you:
- Make sure you keep a bucket of water close by
- Light fireworks using a long-tipped lighting device, keep them at arm’s length and point them away from buildings or other people
- Don’t use a cigarette lighter or matches or go near a firework once it’s lit as it could 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 young children, and shouldn’t be used indoors
How can I be safe with bonfires?
If you decide to have a bonfire, make sure you:
- Check your bonfire for hedgehogs before lighting it
- Have enough space and keep a bucket of water or a hose pipe on hand in case the fire gets out of control
- Never leave a burning or smouldering fire unattended once you have finished with it as it can easily reignite
- Don’t light a fire using flammable liquids or throw fireworks onto it
If you follow these simple steps, you’ll be sure to have a fun-filled but safe bonfire night.