Top Tips for Staying Safe This Bonfire Night

It’s nearly that time of the year again, when the nation goes bonfire crazy, and everyone from kids to big kids and adults spend a ridiculous amount of cash on Catherine wheels, firecrackers, sparklers, Roman candles and rockets. (check out what Bonfire night and firework displays we have listed here) As fun as the 5th of November is, it's also incredibly important to consider just how dangerous it can be. The stats tell us that just shy of 1000 people a year get injured by fireworks and most shockingly 494 of those are children.

More than just loud noises and bright flashes of lights, fireworks are extremely dangerous once lit, so it's very important to ensure special precautions are made by adults. When lighting a firework, make sure there are no flammable materials anywhere nearby and that no one is in the same are. After you've enjoyed a fireworks display, it's important to make sure all the fireworks have been stored safely in a bucket of water and are disposed of before everyone goes home.

As bonfire night takes place in November, the likelihood is that the weather will be on the chilly side, especially at night! So before you leave the house make sure that you get wrapped up, ideally in a number of thin layers followed by a wind and waterproof jacket. And don’t forget about your hat and gloves too.

Although we all love seeing the beautiful flames of the bonfire and experiencing the loud bangs of the colourful fireworks, your pets might not quite feel the same way. If you're planning on leaving them alone for the evening, turn on the television or radio to try and drown out any possible sounds that may scare them, close the curtains and windows to minimise the sights and sounds, and make sure they have enough food and water while you are away.

There are lots of things to think about before attending your annual bonfire and fireworks display, check out this Bonfire & Fireworks Safety Guide for more information, and make sure this year you stay safe, keep warm and most importantly – have fun!