Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service
Bonfire Night
Safety.
Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service is reminding residents to stay safe and plan ahead this Bonfire Night.
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As Bonfire Night approaches, one of the busiest times of year for our crews, we’re urging everyone to stay safe by attending organised public firework displays. These events are not only much safer, but also offer a more spectacular experience and are often more cost-effective than hosting your own.
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There are several organised displays taking place across Northumberland, and we encourage residents to check local listings or community pages for details of events nearby.
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Stay safe, plan ahead, and enjoy Bonfire Night responsibly.
The Firework Code
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Do not buy fireworks from UNLICENCED retailers.
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These fireworks may be unsafe and illegal.
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Only buy fireworks that comply with current safety standards.
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Always keep fireworks in a closed box.
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Take them out one at a time and close the box.
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Never put fireworks in your pocket.
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Be considerate. Let your neighbours know you will be having a display, especially if they are elderly or they have pets or children.
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Avoid setting fireworks off late at night, particularly if it is a school-night.
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Ensure your pets are safe.
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Carefully follow the instructions on EACH firework.
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Never go back to a lit firework unless the instructions advise otherwise.
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Never throw fireworks; it is dangerous.
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Light fireworks one at a time, at the end of the fuse, and at arm’s length.
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Light sparklers one at a time and wear suitable gloves, even when lighting them.
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Never give sparklers to a child under the age of 5.
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Never throw spent fireworks on a bonfire.
Safety at Home
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Remember you are only permitted to build a bonfire on private land, leaving at least 18 metres distance from buildings, trees, electrical items and telephone lines.
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The only safe fuel sources to use for a bonfire are wood, paper, cardboard and foliage. Under no circumstances should aerosols, tyres, plastics or anything containing foam or paint be used on the fire, as these produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode.
Top 10 safety tips
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Avoid wearing loose clothing or clothing that is labelled as ‘highly flammable’.
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Always wear gloves when handling sparklers and fireworks.
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Always have buckets of water ready to put out small fires or cool sparklers.
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Make sure children are supervised around fireworks and bonfires.
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Never drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks.
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Keep animals indoors and close curtains.
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Only purchase fireworks that are sold by a registered seller.
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Follow instructions carefully and light fireworks at arm’s length.
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Ensure spectators stand back from bonfires and fireworks.
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Never go back to a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off.
