The Firework Code 

Follow The Firework Code 

• NEVER buy fireworks from a unlicenced retailer, as they may be UNSAFE and ILLEGAL. 
• Check Fireworks comply with current safety standards, They shoud be CE Marked. 
• Keep fireworks in a closed box away from any flammable material. 
• Always read and follow the instructions on each firework. 
• NEVER smoke near fireworks. 
• Make sure all Fireworks are directed away from the audience and buildings. 
• Light your fireworks at arm’s length with PORTFIRES and stand back to a safe distance. 
• Never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off. 
• Don’t put fireworks in your pockets. 
• ALWAYS supervise children around fireworks. 
• Make sure you wear gloves when handling sparklers, never give a sparkler to children under 5. 
• Keep Pets indoors. 
• Never drink alcohol or take drugs when in charge of fireworks. 
• Never use petrol on bonfires. Make sure your safety distances are sufficient and nothing can catch fire (fence, sheds, ect.) 
• Its ILLEGAL to set off fireworks after 11pm except on special occasions (Bonfire Night till 12am, New Years Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali till 1am) 

Making It Safe and Fun   

• Fireworks at home can be great fun for everyone, as long as you follow the simple safety steps. 
• All fireworks are safe if used correctly and the instructions are followed accordingly. 
• Make sure you have enough safety distance between the audience (taking the wind conditions into consideration) 
• Check for any obstructions that could get in the way of your fireworks (Trees, Buildings, Fencing, Hedges, Power lines) 
• Always wear Protective equipment; Overalls, Goggles, Gloves, Head Torch, Try avoiding large pockets and wellingtons as hot burning embers could fall into them and cause injury. 
• Check if any fireworks have FANNED effects and make sure they are the right way, as you don’t want them positioned incorrectly and firing towards the audience. 
• Always think of your neighbours around you, let them know in good notice so they can sort out any arrangements for pets that they may have. 
• Any fireworks that do not ignite, soak in water for 24 hours before disposing. 
• Make sure you have One or Two buckets of water. 

The Law 

• You cant buy fireworks if you are under the age of 18 years old, proof of ID will be needed when purchasing fireworks. 
• Its illegal to be in possession of fireworks in a public place if your under the age of 18. 
• Its an offence to set fireworks off after 11pm unless special occasions (Bonfire Night until midnight, New Year, Chinese New Yer and Diwali until 1am) 
• The law states you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places. 
• Public can only purchase Category 2 and Category 3 Fireworks for their garden display. 
• You could be fined up to £5000 and imprisioned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also be issued with an on the spot fine of £90. 

Recap 

• Early preparation is everything, work out your firing order in advance. 
• Keep your fireworks in a safe, dry and secure place in a closed box 
• Make sure the fireworks have a suitable support and launching tubes to prevent them moving or falling over. 
• Check your surroundings for any obstacles (trees, buildings, fencing, power lines) 
• Never lean or walk over the top of fireworks 
• Make sure you have enough distance between the fireworks and audience. 
• Angle all fireworks away from the audience and check the type of effects you have. 
• Light all fireworks with portfires at arm’s length and wear protective equipment. 
• Take the direction of the wind into consideration, if in doubt don’t light them. 
• Take neighbours into consideration 
• Keep all children supervised near fireworks. 
• Soak all unfired fireworks for 24 hours before disposing safely. Do not place onto a fire. 
• Never use petrol to light bonfires. 
• All fireworks have their own safety distances, please read the instructions carefully. 
• MOST OF ALL HAVE FUN AND BE SAFE.