Coopers Fire Ltd Highlights The Importance Of Bonfire Safety And The Dangers Around The Use Of Fireworks

Welcoming the winter period with bursts of color is a great way to celebrate and enjoy the experience, but doing so safely is far more important. According to the NHS, there were a whopping 116 hospital admissions of people injured by fireworks in the United Kingdom (UK) during the 2020/21 period.

Coopers Fire Ltd recommends that party-goers attend an organized bonfire or firework display, rather than a DIY event at home, as an event will have all of the security in place, in order to keep attendees safe, should anything not go to plan. This article discusses how to have a fun evening at home without letting things get out of control.

Stick to the Firework Code

Before setting off any fireworks, it is advised to do a thorough research of the firework code. Explained below are the guidelines that people should follow, before hosting a bonfire bonanza.

• Purchase fireworks from an established shop

It’s safe to say that most firework users will not purchase them from somewhere unsafe or untrustworthy. However, buying fireworks from shops that meet essential health and safety requirements is crucial.

From the 1st of January 2023, fireworks supplied in Great Britain must have UKCA marking or provide the relevant documentation. Until the 31st of December 2022, fireworks are permitted to be either CE or UKCA marked.

• Organize Safety

After purchasing the fireworks, preparing the display is essential to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible. Decide where to let them off, and angle all fireworks far away from viewers, so as to prevent injuries or untoward incidents, if anything goes wrong.

• Store fireworks away before use

Keep fireworks and equipment stored in the box they came in or a metal replacement, and take one out at a time as and when you use them, lowering the risk of accidentally causing any harm to viewers.

• Follow instructions and supervise every step

Before going in blindly, read instructions and establish the safest spot to set the fireworks off. If children are attending the event, ensure that at least two adults are present at all times, so that they can supervise, while the others light the fireworks.

Keep children away from bonfires and consider crowd control depending on the size of the event. This is why the organization is so essential to the safety of everyone participating.

• Stand back, no return

Firework instructions will often include guidance on distances from lit fireworks and it is advised to separate the area with fences or tape, so as to make it clear where spectators can or shouldn’t stand.

If a firework falls over or looks like it hasn’t been lit properly, people must leave it alone, in case it explodes or causes damage.

• Light sensibly, extinguish efficiently

Lighting a bonfire with dangerous liquids, such as petrol or other toxic materials can cause dangerous outcomes, such as losing control of the fire and making it difficult to extinguish.

Event holders must ensure the event is safe, before leaving the area unattended – including cleaning up old fireworks or rubbish and putting out bonfires, double checking the surroundings before leaving.

• Follow the code

With all the potential dangers of fireworks and bonfires, following the firework code of conduct can keep everyone safe, while enjoying the show. Here is a simple round-up of what to consider:

• Only purchase CE-marked fireworks from trusted sources
• Follow the instructions and keep all fireworks in a closed box
• Light fireworks at arm’s length using a taper
• Walk away from the lit firework and stand far away
• Do not return to the lit firework if it fails to go off – it may still explode!
• Supervise children during the event
• Keep pets indoors
• Wear gloves while lighting and using sparklers
• Avoid setting off loud fireworks and never light one past 11 pm
• Discuss fireworks or bonfires with neighbors beforehand (Coopers Fire recommends avoiding having a bonfire in the garden, as they can spread quickly to trees, bushes and even homes)
• Do not use petrol, diesel or other dangerous flammable materials to light a bonfire
• Keep buckets of water close by, in case of an emergency
• Do not burn batteries, canisters, paint pots or anything toxic that may explode
• Keep children and animals away from the bonfire

Keeping safe with Coopers Fire Ltd

Since 1983, Coopers Fire Ltd has remained true to their origins by working closely with leading architects and other professional bodies.

They have done this by developing a range of high-performance fire protection equipment that experts across the globe trust to solve their complex design issues, when creating modern, open-plan designs, while meeting stringent fire regulations. Get in touch with the company today to learn more.