21 November 2008Fireworks are now increasingly used across the UK to mark public and private celebrations including New Year, concerts and festivals as well the traditional bonfire night bonanza.
Only buy fireworks which meet the proper safety standard BS7114. This ensures that the fireworks have been properly tested and manufactured.
Read the instructions on every firework before lighting, light them at arms length using a taper then stand well back.
Keep fireworks in a closed box so that sparks cannot set them off
Don't go near a firework after it has been lit, even if it hasn't gone off it could still explode
Do not put fireworks in your pockets or throw them
Supervise children around fireworks
Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves. Do not give them to children under 5 years old
If you have a bonfire do not throw discarded fireworks onto it. There may still be some explosive material in them
Using fireworks
Don't cause a nuisance to others by being irresponsible when you're using fireworks. Give a thought to people with children who may be scared or woken up by loud bangs and remember that animals are often frightened by fireworks going off.
There are some regulations governing the use or fireworks which are summarised below:
It is illegal to use fireworks after 11pm and before 7am except for official Council operated displays and on the following four specific nights:
Selling / buying / possessing fireworks
Companies and retail outlets which sell fireworks throughout the yearhave to be licensed, contact Trading Standards on 01732 525291. It is illegal to sell fireworks to anyone under 18 years of age.
Retail outlets can sell fireworks without a licence during the following periods:
It is illegal to:
The new regulations are enforced by the Police, contravention of the regulations is a criminal offence. The Police deal with:
For further guidance you can download our Fireworks Information Sheet (
PDF 315K file details) or you can go to the direct.gov website to check out Parties, festivals and fireworks safety.
Relevant or Related Legislation
For further information contact the Environmental Protection team on 01732 227000 or environmental.protection@sevenoaks.gov.uk.
