How to Prepare Your Home for Firework Night
Firework Night, also known as Bonfire Night, is an exciting tradition in the UK. While fireworks light up the sky in dazzling displays, they can also pose safety risks and create stress for pets, children, and even your neighbours.
To make sure your home is safe, secure, and ready for Firework Night, follow these essential preparation steps.
Secure Your Outdoor Space
Before lighting any fireworks, take a look at your garden or outdoor area to make sure it’s a safe environment.
Clear the Area – Remove any flammable objects like dry leaves, garden furniture, or rubbish bins that could catch fire.
Check for Overhead Obstacles – Fireworks should be set off in an open space, away from trees, power lines, or buildings. Check out the link for complete fireworks show packages you can buy.
Set Up a Safety Zone – Mark a clear launch area for fireworks and a safe viewing distance for spectators. Keep children and pets well away.
Have Fire Safety Measures in Place – Keep a bucket of water, hosepipe, or fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
Inform Your Neighbours
Fireworks can be disruptive, especially for families with young children, elderly residents, and those with sensory sensitivities.
Give Neighbours Advance Notice – Let them know if you’re planning a home display so they can prepare.
Be Considerate of Wildlife & Livestock – If you live near farms, forests, or nature reserves, be mindful of the impact fireworks can have on animals.
Consider Low-Noise Fireworks – These provide a great display without the loud bangs that can cause distress.
Follow Firework Safety Rules
Fireworks can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Stick to these safety rules to prevent accidents:
Buy from Licensed Sellers – Only purchase fireworks that are CE-marked and meet UK safety standards.
Follow Legal Time Restrictions – Fireworks can only be set off between 7 AM and 11 PM, except on Bonfire Night (until midnight) and New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year (until 1 AM).
Read Instructions Carefully – Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how to light and dispose of fireworks safely.
Never Relight a Dud Firework – If a firework doesn’t go off, leave it for at least 30 minutes, then submerge it in water before disposal.
Prepare for Post-Firework Cleanup
The fun doesn’t stop once the fireworks are over—you’ll need to clean up properly to keep your home and garden safe.
Dispose of Used Fireworks Safely – Allow them to cool completely, then soak them in water before putting them in the bin.
Pick Up Debris – Fireworks can leave behind small bits of plastic, cardboard, and chemicals. Clean up your garden and check neighbouring properties.
Check for Smouldering Materials – Walk around your garden to make sure no embers or sparks are still burning.
What are the Rules for Setting Off Fireworks?
Be Over 18 Years Old
Like a lot of things, you have to be a certain age to set off fireworks. In the UK, you have to be 18 or over to purchase fireworks and use them. Many suppliers will ask for identification and this will have to be shared before you will be given the fireworks. This is to ensure that everybody can be safe and enjoy them.
No Licence Required
For most fireworks, you won’t have to get a licence. This gives you the freedom to create a show that you’ll enjoy. Therefore, you can browse category 2 and 3 fireworks and choose whatever you like. The only exception is if you want category 4 fireworks. These require a special licence.
Only On Private Property
Know that it’s illegal to let off fireworks in public areas. This means that you can’t use them in the street or public parks. Instead, you can only create displays if your own private property. So, this can be your own land or if you have the permission of a friend or family member. Otherwise, you can get in trouble, which means losing your fireworks or getting fined.
Choose Social Times
Remember that it might be legal to set off fireworks on your own property. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t care about others. Let’s neighbours know when you’re going to be doing this. It’s also important that you create a display during social times in the day. While there can be some exceptions for New Year’s Eve and other special occasions, you should still think about people around you and causing as little harm as possible.
Final Thoughts
Firework Night is a fantastic celebration, but preparation is key to keeping your home safe, pet-friendly, and neighbour-conscious. By following these steps, you can enjoy a stress-free night while protecting your family, pets, and surroundings.
