Stay safe this Bonfire Night

Guy Fawkes Night, otherwise known as Bonfire or Fireworks Night takes place on the 5 of November as we're sure you’ll remember! However, every year up to 2,000 people are injured due to improper handling of fireworks, which places a tremendous amount of strain on the NHS.  

If you are planning a fireworks night at home, look after your family and loved ones (including pets - fireworks can be scary for them!) by following the tips below: 

• Please be mindful of your neighbours - especially those who may be vulnerable to loud noises or flashes - and set off fireworks earlier rather than later (remember that legally you can’t set off fireworks after midnight on Bonfire night and 11pm at all other times). 

• If you are going to use your own fireworks, buy from a legitimate retailer (and remember, you must be over 18 to buy or keep fireworks). 

• Make sure you read and follow the instructions on each firework carefully, light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back – never return to a firework once it has been lit. 

• If building a bonfire, choose a site away from wooden fences, sheds or where children are playing. 

• Never pour petrol, paraffin or meths on to a bonfire. 

• Make sure to keep a safe distance from any bonfire or fireworks. 

• If you are using sparklers, make sure they are held at arm’s length while being lit and wear gloves. 

• If you have pets, close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks and/or put on some music or TV to mask the firework sounds. Be considerate of any horses or livestock that might live close by. 

• Remember to make sure any bonfire is completely out by pouring water on the fire rather than leaving it to burn and clear up any debris afterwards as this can be harmful to local wildlife and pets. 

• Last but not least, if you can, purchase low noise fireworks to reduce the impact on your neighbours and pets. 

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has more tips on keeping safe this Fireworks Night.  Plus take a look at the below links for more advice on how to keep your pets safe during celebrations. 

• The RSPCA 

• PDSA 

• British hedgehog preservation society 

For information on public displays in Surrey visit: https://www.visitsurrey.com/whats-on/surrey-bonfire-and-fireworks-displays