Bonfire Night is just around the corner, and this year, it falls on Tuesday, November 5th. If you’re planning to celebrate with a big display, you may also be thinking about hosting a gathering on the weekend before or after the event to give everyone a chance to join in the fun.
Whether you’re setting up a garden bonfire and firework display or attending a larger public event, proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe and memorable evening.
There’s much to consider, from selecting the right location to ensuring safety with fireworks and bonfires. To help you prepare, we’ve outlined nine essential tips to ensure your Bonfire Night display goes smoothly and is safe.
1. Choose the right location
Choosing the right spot for your Bonfire Night display is the key to keeping everyone safe and having a great time. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Pick a clear, open space: Make sure your fireworks display is set up in a spacious, open area with enough room for fireworks and a bonfire. Avoid crowded areas and areas with obstacles that pose hazards.
- Keep away from buildings and trees: Set up your display far from anything that could catch fire, like houses, fences or overhanging branches from trees.
- Create a safe zone: To ensure that guests keep at a safe distance from the display, you should create a safe zone.
2. Check local fireworks laws and regulations
Before setting off fireworks, you must check the local rules to ensure your display is legal and safe. UK laws state that fireworks can be set off until midnight on Bonfire Night. If you are hosting your display the weekend before or after, the cut-off time for setting them off will be 11 pm.
For private displays, you must use Category 3 fireworks, which are safe for public use. Category 4 fireworks can only be used by professionals, so you should only use them if you have a license.
Furthermore, you should be aware of fireworks safety rules and the minimum distance fireworks should be set off. The fireworks safety code advises a distance of up to 25 metres for large fireworks; for smaller fireworks, the minimum distance is 5 metres.
3. Ensure you have the right safety equipment
Having the correct safety equipment on hand is essential for a safe bonfire night display. Here are some key items you should make sure you have and why they are important.
- Fire extinguishers ( ideally a water or foam extinguisher so you can quickly manage any fires )
- Buckets of water/sand ( these are ideal for putting out small fires or sparking fireworks )
- First aid kit ( make sure it includes bandages, antiseptic and burn cream in case of minor burns and cuts )
- Safety gloves ( protect your hands from burning )
- Goggles ( protect your eyes from sparks and debris )
4. Know how to handle and store fireworks
It’s important to handle and store fireworks safely to avoid accidents. Before your display, store fireworks in a cool, dry place, away from heat or dampness. A shed or garage is a good spot. This keeps the fireworks in good condition and ready for use.
Always read the instructions on the fireworks packaging. Each firework has special guidelines, like how far you need to be when lighting it. Following these instructions is crucial to ensure the fireworks work correctly and safely.
When you set up your display, keep the fireworks in an organised area, away from the bonfire and anything flammable. This will help keep everyone safe and ensure the fireworks go as planned.
5. Plan your fireworks display
Planning your fireworks display ahead of time will help ensure it’s fun and enjoyable for everyone. Start by arranging the fireworks in order, beginning with smaller ones and moving up to bigger displays. Setting off smaller fireworks first helps build excitement gradually so guests can enjoy the show without being startled by loud bangs right at the start.
Timing is also key. You don’t want to set off all the fireworks too quickly. Instead, light them at a steady pace so the display is manageable and not overwhelming. If you want to make things easier, consider using a remote ignition kit that allows you to schedule when the fireworks will go off.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to test a few fireworks beforehand to make sure everything works as expected. This can help you avoid any surprises and make sure your display goes smoothly on the night
6. Ensure safety around bonfires
If you are looking to have a bonfire to celebrate Guy Fawkes Night, it’s important to make sure your guests are safe. We recommend the following safety tips:
- Create a clear, safe zone around the bonfire, away from flammable materials such as dry leaves or paper
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance to avoid accidents
- Add wood gradually, not all at once, to keep the fire under control and prevent it becoming out of hand
- Make sure to monitor the fire closely at all times, make sure you don’t leave it unattended
- Have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby
7. Keep pets and children safe
You can take a few simple steps to keep pets and children safe during your Bonfire Night display.
First, keep pets away from the fireworks. The loud noises and bright lights can be frightening, so it’s best to create a quiet, safe space for them indoors.
For children, set up a designated safe area where they can watch the fireworks. Make sure they stay behind barriers and are supervised at all times. It’s also a good idea to explain the importance of firework safety to help them understand the risks.
Consider using ear protection if your pets or children are sensitive to loud noises. Ear defenders or soft earplugs can reduce the noise and make the night more comfortable for them.
Read here for advice on how to keep your pets calm on Bonfire night.
8. Prepare for the weather
The weather can greatly impact your bonfire night display, so it’s important to check the forecast before the event. Wind, rain and damp conditions can affect how fireworks work or how safe the display will be.
Read here for more information on how weather affects fireworks.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate, have a backup plan in place. Whether that be moving the display to a more sheltered location or rescheduling for another day if the conditions are unsafe.
9. Choose a designated fireworks launcher
Choose a responsible, sober adult to set off the fireworks. They should know how to handle fireworks safely and follow all the safety rules. It’s important that no one who’s been drinking or is distracted whilst being in charge of lighting them.
Before launching any fireworks, make sure to follow these tips:
- Keep a safe distance
- Never re-light a faulty firework
- Wear safety gloves and goggles
- Use a long lighter or fuse holder
- Always follow instructions on packaging
Enjoy a safe and spectacular bonfire night
With the right preparation, choosing the right location, following safety guidelines, and carefully planning your fireworks display and bonfire, you can ensure a fun and safe evening for guests of all ages.
Safety should always come first, so equip yourself with the proper safety gear and handle fireworks responsibly. Whether hosting a small garden display or attending a public event, these tips will help you create an unforgettable celebration.
