Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service is advising against holding your own firework display at home. This is because they often result in accidents.
Anyone who does decide to have fireworks at home should remember:
Don't be a fool with fireworks...
If you choose to use fireworks, follow the firework safety code:
- Only buy fireworks with a CE mark.
- Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.
- Keep fireworks in a closed box.
- Follow the instructions on each firework.
- Light at arm's length, using a taper.
- Stand well back.
- Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode.
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Ensure you soak used fireworks and sparklers for 24 hours before binning them
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Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.
- Always supervise children around fireworks.
- Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.
- Never give sparklers to a child under five.
- Keep pets indoors.
Be responsible for your actions and think about others.
Keep Kids Safe
We want children to enjoy fireworks but they need to know that they can be dangerous if they are not used properly.
Children including babies and toddlers, suffer over half of all firework injuries. Children's scars may heal but the trauma for them and their parents can last for years.
You may also like to visit our page on Keeping your pets safe. You should take precautions to protect your pets during the times of the year when fireworks are likely to be set off.
Sparklers
Did you know that sparklers get five times hotter than cooking oil? Sparklers are not toys and should never be given to a child under five.
The Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) and the Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) are working together. They are trying to reduce the number of injuries to children, particularly those under five, caused by fireworks.
Go to the CAPT website for more information on keeping children safe from fireworks and other accidents.
The law on buying fireworks
Changes to the law mean that it is now an offence for under-18s to be in possession of fireworks in a public place. If you plan to let your own fireworks off, please view our additional page on the Safe use of Fireworks, Legislation and the Law.
Misuse of fireworks
To report misuse of fireworks call your local police (Cornwall and Devon). You can do this by dialling 101. Alternatively, call crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Fire safety materials
Contact Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service if you would like any of the above materials sent to you.
Further information
View our information on Dialling 999 in an emergency.