Fireworks and bonfires safety guidance

3rd Nov 2022

We want all our residents to stay safe during this time of the year, when fireworks and bonfires are used for celebrations.

Remember that wherever possible, attend an organised firework display.

Please follow the firework and bonfire safety guidance below:

• Fireworks and bonfires are only allowed in private gardens or as part of an organised display. They are not allowed in parks or in communal areas of housing estates.  
• It is a criminal offence to use fireworks between 11pm and 7am. There are a few exceptions which are Bonfire Night (5th November) when the cut off is midnight and New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am. 
• Please report firework misuse to the police. In an emergency, call 999, in a non-urgent situation, call 101 or report online.
• Only buy fireworks that have a CE mark, from licenced retailers.
• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.
• Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
• Read and follow the instructions on each firework, using a torch if necessary.
• Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.
• Always supervise children around fireworks.
• Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.
• Never give sparklers to a child under five years old.
• Keep a bucket of water close by.
• Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
• Always keep pets indoors.
• If you are having a bonfire build it away from sheds, fences and trees.
• Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
• Make sure that the bonfire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

Stay safe while enjoying fireworks, find out more from the London Fire Brigade.