Fireworks Safety and Crime Prevention Advice

Fireworks Safety and Crime Prevention Advice

Fireworks Safety and Crime Prevention Advice

The Dangers of Firework Misuse and Firework Fights

Fireworks are explosives designed for organised displays and celebrations. When used incorrectly, they can cause serious injuries, fires, criminal damage, and fear within the community.

Risks of Firework Fights

A growing concern is the misuse of fireworks during "firework fights", where individuals deliberately throw or fire fireworks at others. This behaviour is extremely dangerous and can result in:

Common Dangerous Misuse

❌ Firing fireworks at people, vehicles, or buildings.

❌ Holding lit fireworks in your hand.

❌ Throwing lit fireworks.

❌ Modifying or dismantling fireworks.

❌ Using fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

❌ Setting off fireworks in parks, streets, car parks, or near emergency service vehicles.

❌ Allowing children to handle adult fireworks.

Firework Safety Advice

✅ Only purchase fireworks from legitimate retailers.

✅ Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

✅ Keep spectators at a safe distance.

✅ Light fireworks one at a time.

✅ Keep fireworks in a closed box until required.

✅ Have water available in case of emergencies.

✅ Dispose of used fireworks safely by soaking them in water before placing them in a bin.

✅ Supervise children at all times.

Parents and Guardians

Parents should be aware of where their children are during the weeks surrounding Bonfire Night and other celebrations. Fireworks can cause devastating injuries when misused, and young people involved in firework fights may face criminal consequences that could affect their future.

Reporting Concerns

If you witness dangerous firework use, anti-social behaviour, or fireworks being used as weapons:

Community Message

Fireworks are for celebration, not confrontation. Using fireworks as weapons is reckless, dangerous, and can have life-changing consequences for both victims and offenders. Help keep our communities safe by using fireworks responsibly and reporting dangerous behaviour.

Provide your feedback on BizChat

You said:

add the correct way to use it times ect

Copilot said:

Fireworks Safety and Crime Prevention Advice

Use Fireworks Responsibly - Keep Yourself and Others Safe

Fireworks can be enjoyed safely when used correctly. However, every year people suffer serious injuries due to misuse, reckless behaviour, and so-called "firework fights". Fireworks are explosives and should never be treated as toys or used as weapons.

When Can Fireworks Be Used?

In the UK, fireworks may generally be used between 7:00 am and 11:00 pm.

Extended cut-off times apply on:

Using fireworks outside these times without a valid reason may result in enforcement action.

The Correct Way to Use Fireworks

✅ Buy fireworks only from licensed retailers.

✅ Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

✅ Store fireworks in a closed box until needed.

✅ Light fireworks one at a time.

✅ Stand well back immediately after lighting.

✅ Keep spectators at a safe distance.

✅ Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.

✅ Supervise children at all times.

✅ Consider neighbours, elderly residents, pets, and livestock.

✅ Dispose of used fireworks safely by soaking them in water before placing them in a bin.

Never Do the Following

❌ Throw fireworks.

❌ Fire fireworks at people, vehicles, homes, or police.

❌ Hold lit fireworks in your hand.

❌ Place fireworks in bottles or other makeshift launchers.

❌ Modify or dismantle fireworks.

❌ Use fireworks whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

❌ Carry fireworks around in pockets.

❌ Set off fireworks in streets, car parks, alleyways, parks, or other public places.

Firework Fights - A Dangerous Criminal Offence

Firework fights involve individuals intentionally firing or throwing fireworks at each other. This behaviour is extremely dangerous and can lead to:

Those involved may face arrest for offences including:

A moment of recklessness can result in life-changing injuries and a criminal record.

Advice for Parents and Guardians

Parents should know where their children are during the weeks leading up to Bonfire Night and other celebrations. Discuss the dangers of fireworks and explain that using them as weapons or participating in firework fights is both dangerous and illegal.

Reporting Concerns

If you witness dangerous firework use, disorder, or fireworks being used as weapons:

Emergency (immediate danger): 999

Non-Emergency Police Matters: 101

Anonymous Reports: Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Community Safety Message

Fireworks are for celebration, not confrontation. Using fireworks responsibly helps keep our communities safe. Fireworks used as weapons can cause devastating injuries, significant damage, and serious criminal consequences. Think before you light, respect your neighbours, and help prevent anti-social behaviour in your community.

Provide your feedback on BizChat