Fireworks, with dazzling coloured displays are the highlight of any celebration, whether a private garden display or a large public event. However, it’s important to remember that fireworks can be dangerous if not handled safely. Understanding fireworks safety is essential to keep everyone safe and ensure the fireworks are enjoyable.
Fireworks can cause a variety of injuries, from minor burns to severe accidents that may harm people or damage property. This guide will provide you with the essential information and advice on what to do in a firework emergency.
What are the most common firework emergencies?
Firework emergencies can happen in different ways, each with its own risks and needed actions. Here are some of the most common types:
Fireworks misfiring:
A misfire occurs when a firework fails to launch or explode as intended. This can happen due to defects in manufacturing, improper handling or poor weather conditions.
Accidental fires:
Fireworks can easily ignite and start fires, especially in dry conditions or when used near flammable materials. Accidental fires caused by fireworks can quickly spread and can cause damage to property and danger to individuals.
Injuries:
Injuries from fireworks are common and can range from minor burns and cuts to severe accidents. In the UK, according to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), around 4,500 people visit A&E yearly due to firework injuries.
How to prevent a firework emergency?
This section will discuss essential guidelines for safely using fireworks, including general safety tips, how to set up a safe area for launch and the recommended safety gear you should have.
4 simple firework safety rules:
- Always read and follow the instructions on fireworks labels
- Ensure the fireworks you use are legal before purchasing and lighting them
- Never allow children to handle fireworks unsupervised
- Keep a bucket or hose nearby in case of emergencies
Recommended safety gear:
To protect yourself against hazards, wear proper safety gear, including protective gloves and safety glasses. Additionally, have a fire extinguisher readily available to extinguish unexpected fires quickly.
Setting up a safe firework display:
When preparing for a diy fireworks display, it’s crucial to establish a clear, open area. This is not just important, it’s a must to ensure everyone’s safety. Choose a location free from buildings, dry grass, and flammable materials, and maintain a recommended distance of at least 25 meters between spectators and the launch site.
After the firework displays:
Once the fireworks show is over, all used fireworks should be thoroughly soaked in water before disposal to prevent accidental fires and ensure they are completely extinguished.
Steps to take if a firework malfunctions
Firework malfunctions are not uncommon and can occur due to various factors, such as manufacturing defects or improper handling. Fireworks can malfunction in multiple ways, with the most common being:
Early ignition: this occurs when a firework ignites before it’s intended to, potentially causing harm to bystanders
Delayed ignition: opposite to early ignition, this occurs when the firework fails to ignite after being lit, leading to unpredictable behaviour and risk of lighting after
Tip-overs: Some fireworks can tip over upon ignition, which can cause them to alter the flight path or launch horizontally on the ground
Erratic flight: Malfunctions in aerial fireworks can cause erratic flight paths and risk of fireworks being directed toward spectators
Explosion on grounds: Some fireworks can explode prematurely on the ground instead of launching into the air, increasing the risk of injuries.
If a firework malfunctions during a display, it is crucial to act swiftly and safely. It is recommended that you take these steps:
- Stay calm – Keep spectators calm and clear the area around the malfunctioning firework
- Do not approach – Avoid approaching a firework that hasn’t fully ignited or malfunctioned
- Wait and observe – Allow the fireworks to cool down for at least 30 minutes before handling it
Responding to firework-related injuries
Accidents occur, but firework-related incidents can lead to significant issues. Therefore, this section aims to offer guidance on the typical injuries resulting from fireworks and detailed steps for administering proper first aid.
So, what are the most common fireworks injuries?
Burns
Burns are the most common type of firework-related injury. Depending on the proximity to the fireworks, these can range from minor to severe burns.
First Aid: Remove any clothing or jewellery near the burn, and cool the burn by running cool water for at least 10 minutes. Then, cover the burn with a loose sterile dressing or a clean cloth. Seek medical help if the burn is severe or covers a large area.
Eye injuries
Debris from fireworks and sparklers can cause eye injuries such as burns and abrasions.
First Aid: Do not rub the eye; gently flush it with clean water or a saline solution if possible. Cover the eye with a clean cloth and seek medical attention from an eye specialist.
Hand and finger injuries
Malfunctioned or mishandling of fireworks can result in injuries to the hand, including fractures, burns and lacerations.
First Aid: Rinse the injured area with cool water and apply pressure to control bleeding with sterile bandages. Seek medical emergency medical help immediately.
Hearing loss
Fireworks produce loud noises, and prolonged exposure or close proximity to fireworks can lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss.
First Aid: Move the person away from the source of the noise. If hearing loss is persistent, seek medical attention promptly.
Respiratory injuries
Inhaling smoke or toxic fumes from fireworks can lead to respiratory irritation, asthma exacerbation or other respiratory problems.
First Aid: move the injured person to fresh air, and if breathing difficulties persist, seek medical help.
Firework Emergency contacts and resources
We hope this blog has helped you understand the potential risks of fireworks and how to ensure safety during a display. It’s essential to be prepared to administer first aid effectively in an emergency.
If you are experiencing a severe fireworks emergency in the UK, dial 999 for immediate help from emergency services such as the NHS or your local fire department.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of valuable online resources for firework safety tips and first-aid advice:
Staying safe with fireworks (UK Government)
Burns and scalds advice page (NHS)
First Aid app (St John Ambulance)
Firework safety advice for children (Child Accident Prevention Trust)
