Top tips to keep kids safe around fireworks

A young girl holding a lit sparkler

1. Attend an organised display

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is at a professional show. Bonfires and fireworks are only allowed in a private garden or as part of an organised display. It is a criminal offence to use fireworks in public spaces such as parks, communal areas of housing estates or on streets.

2. Buy safely

Having a private display? Make sure you buy them from licensed retailers and that they have a CE safety mark.

3. Supervise children

Always keep a close eye on children and never let them handle fireworks.

4. Stay sober

Keep a clear mind and steady hand by avoiding alcohol if you’re setting fireworks off.

5. Safety first

Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies.

6. Know the law

It is against the law to let off fireworks between 11pm and 7am. There are a few exceptions which are Bonfire Night when the cut-off is midnight and New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut-off is 1am.


For more safety tips, visit: london-fire.gov.uk/safety/fireworks

Please report firework misuse to the police. In an emergency, call 999, in a non-urgent situation, call 101 or report online at: met.police.uk/report

If you’re being disturbed by noise from fireworks, other than organised events, you can report it online: islington.gov.uk/reportASB

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