Bonfire Night Safety - how can we have fun without compromising safety?

The magical aura of Bonfire Night is undeniable – the mesmerising fire dances, the exuberant fireworks painting the night sky, and the joyous atmosphere of wide-eyed amazement. However, the celebrations are not without their risks. Every year, thousands end up in hospitals due to firework and bonfire injuries.

According to NHS Digital, in 2018/19 alone, there were close to 2,000 incidents leading people to A&E due to fireworks. There was a significant rise in individuals seeking advice on treating burns and scalds during the bonfire night period. Such alarming numbers underline the crucial importance of safety during Bonfire Night.

Dr. Cliff Mann, NHS National Clinical Director for Urgent and Emergency Care, highlights the need for caution: "We all want the fireworks night to go with a bang of dazzling lights, but without the flashing blue lights of an NHS ambulance. Take simple steps to stay safe, and acquire basic first aid skills."

So, how can we ensure safety without compromising the fun? Here are some guidelines to help:

Firework and Sparkler Safety:

• Always purchase fireworks from reliable sellers and store them securely out of children's reach.
• Light fireworks at arm's length and immediately step back.
• Once lit, never approach a firework, even if it seems inactive.
• Transport fireworks with caution and never throw them.
• Supervise children around fireworks and sparklers.
• Use gloves when lighting sparklers and douse them in cold water after they're done.
• Keep pets indoors; loud noises can easily upset them.

Bonfire Safety:

• Avoid having bonfires in gardens as they can easily ignite nearby structures.
• If you choose to have a bonfire at home or in public, build it far from homes, fences, or overhead cables.
• Check for animals or children before lighting the bonfire.
• Be careful about the materials you add to the fire. Items like aerosols can be explosive.
• Avoid accelerants like petrol; they can make fires hard to control.
• Always have emergency tools like water and sand nearby.

Common injuries received around Bonfire Night include burns, shock, and eye injuries. Dr. Lynn Thomas, Medical Director at St John Ambulance, advises, "Strictly follow instructions when handling, lighting, and watching fireworks. In the event of minor injuries, prompt action can prevent further harm. For severe injuries, always dial 999.”

Going to public displays can be safer than running them yourselves, as they are organised by professionals who consult with fire services. Hope firework displays come with a higher degree of risk as there are less safety measures in place. Sadly, a significant portion of accidents involve children, mostly due to carelessness.

By sticking to these guidelines, Bonfire Night 2023 can be memorable for all the right reasons. Keep safety paramount, protect children and pets, and always be prepared for emergencies. Celebrate responsibly and let the skies light up with joy, not mishaps!

For even more firework safety tips, check out the RoSPA website. And don't forget to keep an eye on the Ardent Safety blog for workplace safety advice throughout the year.