How your fireworks could be breaking the law
Setting off fireworks at home can be a risky business – and could even be illegal.
Here’s how to make sure your Bonfire Night celebrations go with a bang – and don’t end with you getting banged up.
Are there any restrictions on when fireworks can be lit?
Yes – it’s against the law to set them off between 11pm and 7am. There are exceptions however, including Bonfire Night (November 5) when the cut off is extended an extra hour to midnight.
On New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, this is pushed back to 1am.
Check with your council for any area-specific rules regarding fireworks.
How old do you need to be to buy fireworks?
You need to be 18 to buy ‘adult’ fireworks, also known as category 2 and 3 fireworks. All fireworks available to the general public fall into these categories.
Category 4 fireworks – also known as ‘industrial’ fireworks – are for professional use only. In untrained hands, they are extremely dangerous.
Category 1 is usually reserved for those that pose a minimum hazard, such as indoor fireworks.
Any other restrictions?
It is illegal to set off fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.
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When and where can you buy fireworks and sparklers for private use?
You can only buy them from registered sellers on the following dates:
15 October to 10 November
26 to 31 December
Three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
During the rest of the year you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops.
What happens if you sell or use fireworks illegally?
You can be fined up to £5,000 and imprisoned for up to six months. You also face an on-the-spot fine of £90.
Further information regarding firework safety is available from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Health and Safety Executive.
Top image: Rex
