Safety this Bonfire Night

🎆 Bonfire Night in Wolverhampton: Stay Safe, Stay Legal 🎆

With Bonfire Night nearing, West Midlands Police want everyone in Wolverhampton to enjoy the night safely and lawfully. Please take note of these essential tips 🔥

1. Know the Law on Fireworks

When you can’t use fireworks: It’s illegal to set off fireworks between 11 pm and 7 am, except on:

Bonfire Night (5 Nov): until midnight

New Year’s Eve, Diwali, Chinese New Year: until 1 am  

Age restrictions:

Under 18: cannot buy or use adult (category 2/3) fireworks

Under 16: cannot use any fireworks except category 1 (e.g., party poppers)  

Category restrictions:

Category 4 (professional) fireworks are illegal for public use—only licensed operators may handle them  

Location restrictions:

It’s an offence to set off or throw fireworks in public places (streets, parks, highways); they must be used on private property only  

Penalties include on-the-spot fines (approx. £90), unlimited fines or up to 6 months’ imprisonment for serious breaches .

2. Buying & Using Fireworks Safely

Choose wisely: Purchase only CE‑marked fireworks from trusted, licensed sellers — available legally from 15 Oct–10 Nov (and other cultural events) .

Follow the Firework Code:

1. Keep fireworks in a closed box and read instructions.

2. Light at arm’s length using a taper; move away quickly.

3. Never lean over fireworks or leave them unattended.

4. One sparkler at a time, with gloves — only give sparklers to children over the age of 5; dispose in a bucket of water .

5. Don’t mix fireworks and alcohol — leave lighting to sober adults .

6. Ensure a safe distance from spectators, buildings, vehicles, livestock, pets and flammable materials .

3. Bonfire Safety – Build It Right

Legal timeframe: No restrictions on bonfire times—but be courteous to neighbours (noise, smoke) .

Only burn clean, dry wood—no plastics, rubber, or painted materials, as banned under the Environmental Protection Act .

Keep bonfires well contained and clear of public spaces—if your fire emits smoke into roads or across property, you could be committing an offence .

4. Pet & Community Welfare

Notify neighbours, especially those with pets, elderly or vulnerable people—fireworks and smoke can distress them .

Keep all animals indoors and ensure areas are secure.

Notify local farmers if bonfires are set near livestock .

5. Driving & Transport Rules

Treat fireworks as dangerous goods—you can carry up to 50 kg without extra paperwork, but over that requires ADR compliance.

Keep fireworks dry, ventilated, and separated from ignition sources; avoid stacking combustible items .

Check your insurance covers firework transport; failure to do so may invalidate your policy.

Watch out for smoke reducing visibility; slow down and use headlights/fog lights for safety.

6. What to Do in an Emergency or to Report Misuse

Witnessing dangerous, antisocial firework activity?

Call 999 if there’s immediate danger; otherwise, dial 101 to report.

If under‑age individuals are misusing fireworks, inform their parents or Trading Standards .

Summary Checklist for Wolverhampton Residents

✔ Safety Task

✓ Only use fireworks 7 am–midnight on 5 Nov

✓ Buy from licensed sellers during legal windows

✓ Follow the Firework Code; adult supervision essential

✓ Build clean, contained bonfires; avoid banned items

✓ Mind pets, neighbours, vehicles, rural property

✓ Report misuse—don’t hesitate to contact police

👮 Final Word from West Midlands Police

West Midlands Police are committed to a safe, enjoyable Bonfire Night for Wolverhampton. Whether you’re attending a professional display or hosting at home, please take responsibility—for yourself, your family, your community, and our pets.

Together, we can keep Guy Fawkes night memorable for the right reasons. Wishing everyone a safe and spark-filled celebration!

Stay tuned to our local social media and WMnow alerts for real-time advice, official public displays, and neighbourhood updates.

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