Derby fireworks expert shares advice on how to stay safe and not break the law on Bonfire Night

There is great fun to be had on Bonfire Night, which follows hot on the heels of Halloween.

Whether you are playing host with the most and inviting people round for a bonfire and fireworks party, or if you are a guest at someone else’s gathering, it is prudent to be aware of safety precautions.

Fireworks should be fit for purpose in the space that you plan on hosting Bonfire Night, says Julian, owner of Fireworks Derby who has been trading for over 30 years.

He said: “When thinking about fireworks, go to a reputable, specialist fireworks retailer and seek advice from them.

“They will ask important questions such as, ‘are there trees in your garden?’, ‘what sort of space will your bonfire be in?’ to ensure what they are selling you is safe.”

He urges people to be ‘sensible and realistic,’ keeping in mind the timeframe when you can legally set off fireworks.

Laws and regulations exist to make Bonfire Night a safe and enjoyable time for all.

Here is everything you need to know about the law on fireworks

By law, you can only buy fireworks and sparklers for personal use, from registered sellers between these dates:

• October 15 - November 10
• December 26 - 31
• 3 days before Diwali and Chinese New Year (Saturday February 10, 2024)

If you are under 18, you cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks.

Adult fireworks are category 2 and 3 fireworks which do not include party poppers, whilst category 4 fireworks can only be used by professionals.

You must not set off or throw fireworks, including sparklers, in the street or other public places.

What time are fireworks banned in the UK?

You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for:

• Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight
• New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut off is 1am

According to the charity Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, the ten step firework code to keep people safe on Bonfire Night includes only buying fireworks with the UKCA symbol, and lighting fireworks with a taper and at arm’s length.

You can read the full firework code here.

Check with your council to find out about any local rules for setting off fireworks.

More top safety tips can be found on the Derby city council website here.