Picture of Bright Lights Inverness


Despite annual safety warnings, Bonfire night still ends in disaster and misery for far too many families. 

We would like to remind everyone, that at this time of year, many families will put their safety at risk by failing to plan firework displays properly and follow the Firework Code.

HIFRS advocate attending an organised firework display. Please contact your Local Authority for details on organised events.

The period between 23 October and 12 November is the peak for bonfire and firework related incidents.

More than 1300 people are injured every year in the UK from Fireworks. A simple sparkler reaches a temperature of up to 2000°C over 15 times the boiling point of water. A rocket can travel up to 150 miles per hour. All kinds of fireworks need handling with extreme care.

Do not drink alcohol and handle fireworks, the two do not mix.

The introduction of new legislation on the misuse of fireworks will help improve safety and stamp out anti-social behaviour ahead of the fireworks season, which generally runs from mid-October to mid-November:
 
  • it is illegal for retailers to sell fireworks to anyone under 18 years old
  • retailers are not allowed to sell fireworks which are louder than 120 decibels
  • it is now illegal to let off fireworks between 11pm and 7am (except on Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali when this is extended to 1am and on 5th November when it is extended to midnight)
  • it is an offence to throw or set off fireworks in a street or public place
  • it is also illegal for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in public

Please follow the guidance on the attached leaflets for a safe and enjoyable fireworks night

Firework Code - Leaflet for Adults (link http://www.berr.gov.uk/fireworks/download/Fireworkcode_ADULT_A5.pdf)

Firework Code - Leaflet for Children (link http://www.berr.gov.uk/fireworks/download/Firework_code_BEN_A5.pdf)

Don't Give Fire a Home (link http://www.dontgivefireahome.com/)
 
Further Firework safety information is available from the Department of Business, Enterprise Regulatory Reform (link http://www.berr.gov.uk/fireworks)