Safety Advice For Bonfire Night.

Agreed on 4 November 2026. Updated on 4 November 2026

Enjoy Fireworks Safely and Responsibly This Bonfire Night

As Bonfire Night approaches, many people will be looking forward to enjoying fireworks with family and friends. Whether you’re attending an organised display or celebrating at home, we want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable evening.

Fireworks can be great fun, but they can also cause serious injuries, distress to others, and damage to property if used irresponsibly. Please take a few moments to familiarise yourself with the law and some simple safety advice.

Fireworks and the Law

Fireworks are subject to restrictions designed to keep people safe.

You must be 18 or over to buy or possess adult fireworks (Category 2 and Category 3 fireworks).
Category 4 fireworks are for professional use only and cannot be bought or used by members of the public.
It is illegal to set off or throw fireworks, including sparklers, in the street or other public places.
It is against the law to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions:
- Bonfire Night (5 November), when fireworks may be used until midnight.
- New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when fireworks may be used until 1am.

Anyone using fireworks irresponsibly may face enforcement action.

Celebrating Safely

If you are planning to have fireworks at home:

Always buy fireworks from a reputable retailer.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Keep fireworks in a closed box and only take them out one at a time.
Light fireworks at arm’s length using a taper and stand well back.
Never return to a firework that has failed to ignite.
Keep children and pets away from fireworks.
Have a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of an emergency.

Be a Considerate Neighbour

Fireworks can be frightening for pets, livestock, young children and vulnerable people.

If you are planning a display, consider letting your neighbours know in advance so that they can take steps to keep animals safe and make any necessary arrangements.

Report Anti-Social Behaviour

We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night safely. If you witness dangerous or anti-social behaviour involving fireworks, please report it to us. If there is an immediate risk to life or a crime is in progress, always call 999.

Have fun, stay safe, and help make this year’s celebrations enjoyable for everyone in our communities.