The London Fire Brigade is encouraging people to attend organised displays rather than setting off fireworks at home. For those planning private celebrations, following basic safety advice can help prevent injuries and fires.
Always buy fireworks from reputable retailers and check they carry the UKCA or CE safety marking. Read the instructions before use and make sure there is enough space to follow the recommended safety distances.
Key precautions include:
• Keep fireworks in a closed box and take them out one at a time.
• Light them at arm's length using a taper.
• Stand well back once lit.
• Never return to a firework that has been lit, even if it appears not to have gone off.
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
• Keep a bucket of water or hosepipe nearby.
• Only adults aged 18 or over should handle fireworks.
Keep bonfires away from buildings, fences, trees and other combustible materials. Never use petrol or paraffin to start a fire, burn unsuitable materials or throw fireworks onto a bonfire.
Children should be kept well away from open flames. Sparklers should not be given to children under five, and older children must be supervised by an adult. Place used sparklers in a bucket of water to cool.
Fireworks must not normally be set off between 11pm and 7am. On Bonfire Night, the cut-off is midnight.
It is also illegal to set off fireworks in the street or other public places without the appropriate legal authority. Fireworks can only be purchased by people aged 18 or over.
Choosing an organised display, following the Firework Code and keeping a safe distance from flames and fireworks can help reduce the risk of accidents.
For more advice, visit the London Fire Brigade's fireworks safety guidance or the government's guide to fireworks laws and regulations.
Register your Interest for the Fire Safety Event Europe 2027 | NEC Birmingham | 27-29 April 2027: The Fire Safety Event Europe.
Subscribe to Fire Safety Digital for monthly updates.