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Fireworks Code

Remember, remember the Fireworks Code!

It’s hard to beat the sheer spectacle of a really good public fireworks display, but if you prefer to enjoy your own fireworks on Bonfire Night, following the Fireworks Code will help you, your family and friends to stay safe.

The first thing to remember is only to buy fireworks marked with the BS7114 British Standard.

Sparklers are often viewed as being harmless but they do burn at fierce temperatures and should not be given to anyone under the age of five.  To a young child, the heat from a sparkler is equivalent to the heat from a welding torch.

If you are one of the unlucky few who suffer a fireworks-related injury, the West Berkshire Community Hospital Minor Injuries Unit, on London Road, Thatcham, is open from 0800 to 2200 every day.

 Once you have your fireworks you should:

  • Keep fireworks in a closed box
  • Follow the instructions on each firework
  • Light 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 children under five
  • When the sparkler has finished, put it into a bucker of cold water straight away and leave it there
  • Keep pets indoors