Bonfires and Firework Safety

The Firework Code 

Watching fireworks is popular and fun. But fireworks are explosives and potentially dangerous, so they need careful handling and storage. 

• Only buy fireworks that are CE marked. 
• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks. 
• Keep fireworks in a closed box. 
• Follow the instructions on each firework. 
• Light them at arm’s length, using a taper. 
• Stand well back. 
• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off it could still explode. 
• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them. 
• Always supervise children around fireworks. 
• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves. 
• Never give sparklers to a child under five. 
• Keep pets indoors. 
• Don’t set off noisy fireworks late at night and never after 11pm. 

Bonfire Safety Tips 

We don’t recommend having a bonfire in your garden. They can easily get out of hand and spread quickly to hedges, overhanging trees and garages, even to the house. 

If you do decide to have one please follow our advice here: 

• If you are having a bonfire discuss it with your neighbours beforehand. 
• Don’t build a bonfire too far in advance of the day as it can encourage anti-social behaviour. 
• Build the bonfire away from sheds, fences and trees. 
• Check there are no cables (for example telephone wires) above the bonfire. 
• Ensure there is a suitable barrier around the bonfire to keep spectators at least five metres away. 
• Always check that no children or animals are hiding in the bonfire before lighting. 
• Don’t burn aerosols, batteries, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint – many produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode, causing injury. 
• Don’t use petrol, paraffin, diesel, white spirit or methylated spirit to light the bonfire. 
• Keep some buckets of water nearby in case of an emergency and to damp down after the event. 

Organised firework displays

Below you will find a list of organised firework displays in the two counties, please check the page again as the list will be updated on a regular basis until Bonfire Night on 5th November.

Anyone holding an organised bonfire or firework display in Herefordshire or Worcestershire can add their event to the list by calling HWFRS on 0800 032 1155 or emailing safeandwell@hwfire.org.uk.