Remember remember safety on Bonfire Night

Date:  01 November 2006

PR Reference No.: Remember remember safety on Bonfire Night

Fireworks can be a lot of fun but please don't forget your neighbours and pets on Bonfire Night. The District Council is reminding residents that it's illegal to let off fireworks outside the designated time of 7pm to 11pm.

Extensions to the designated times are allowed for special religious and cultural events.  For the evening of November 5th itself fireworks can be used until midnight. Other religious and cultural celebrations such as Diwali, New Year's Eve and Chinese New Year also have extensions.

It is illegal for a person under 18 years of age to possess a firework in a public place or for anyone to set off fireworks in public. The Police have enforcement powers to prevent the misuse of fireworks.

Councillor Phil Brading, Portfolio Holder for Public Services and Health, said:

"We hope that people have a great time at bonfire events this coming weekend. But please remember that fireworks cannot be let off indiscriminately at other times because they create a noise nuisance to both people and pets. 

"Please do have fun safely and always follow the Firework Code."

If residents want to report fireworks being let off outside the designated time they should contact Hertfordshire Constabulary contactus@herts.pnn.police.uk or ring 0845 33 00 222 (24 hours).

The firework code

When buying fireworks, make sure they comply with BS 7114 and are clearly marked for their intended use 'Indoor, Garden or Display'.

• Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin. Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately.
• NEVER put fireworks in your pocket.
• Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp.
• NEVER use a naked flame. Light fireworks at arm's length using a taper or a firework lighter.
• Stand well back.
• NEVER return to a firework after it has been lit, it could explode in your face.
• Ensure that all children with fireworks are well supervised at all times.
• NEVER throw fireworks.
• Keep all pets indoors.
• Take care of sparklers, wear gloves to hold them and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished.
• Light sparklers one at a time.
• Never give sparklers to children under five. 

Other useful tips

• Tell your neighbours you are going to use fireworks and how long they are likely to last.
• Avoid letting fireworks off in unsuitable weather (still and misty air or strong winds). 
• Avoid letting off fireworks in enclosed areas, noise will bounce off buildings and smoke cannot disperse.
• Clear up firework debris afterwards and dispose of it safely.

The enforcement responsibilities described lie with Hertfordshire Constabulary; residents should contact them if they have any concerns 0845 33 00 222.

Hertfordshire County Council Trading Standards are responsible for the licensing of the sale of fireworks and professional displays - for trading standards complaints and queries residents can contact Consumer Direct Telephone: 08454 04 05 06.