Thursday 5 November is Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, an annual commemoration of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. The Gunpowder Plot was a failed attempt to overthrow King James I, where a group of conspirators including Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
Bonfire Night is usually celebrated with bonfires, fireworks and sparklers across the country, with celebrations likely to continue into the weekend.
Bonfire Night can be a fun night for everyone to enjoy, but for some it can be distressing. Therefore, it is important to respect your vulnerable and elderly neighbours, as well as neighbours and local residents with young children or pets. It’s also important to understand bonfire and firework safety ahead of the celebrations.
Here are some tips to keep everyone safe during this time:
Bonfire and firework safety
- If you are hosting a fireworks party, please tell your neighbours, especially those who are elderly, have young children or have pets. Please also be mindful of neighbours who may have experienced conflict or served in the forces.
- Never have a bonfire or let off fireworks on your balcony or in communal areas.
- Don’t set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am.
- Please avoid using drink or drugs before or when using fireworks.
- Never return to a lit firework.
- Never throw fireworks and never have fireworks in your pocket.
- Children should never play or light fireworks.
- Sparklers should be lit at arm’s length and at one at a time. Children under five should not handle sparklers, and children over five should be always supervised by an adult. Wear gloves when handling sparklers and dispose of them in a bucket of water.
- Keep your pets indoors from Thursday 5 November until the end of the weekend, close the curtains and play some gentle music or pop the television on to mask the sound. For more information on keeping your pets safe during fireworks night, please visit the RSPCA website.
- The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by going to an organised event. Check your local council’s website for displays near you.
For more information, visit Fireworks | London Fire Brigade (london-fire.gov.uk)