Follow our simple rules to keep kids and adults safe and protected so everyone can enjoy the fun of fires and fireworks.
Toffee apples, conker battles and, if you’re under five or still cute enough to pull it off, an armful of sugary booty from Trick or Treating the neighbours – what’s not to love about this time of year?
With Halloween and Bonfire Night upon us (the one week in the year where it’s socially acceptable to burn stuff), thoughts will invariably turn to all things flammable. While toasting numb body parts in front of a crackling bonfire and watching the night sky come alive is undoubtedly a highlight of these cold winter months, there are, of course, risks involved in such seasonal pleasures. Follow our essential rules to enjoy the autumn festivities without ending up in A&E.
Fireworks
• Always buy your fireworks from a reputable dealer and make sure they come with a BS 7114 or CE mark – this shows that the firework meets the British or European safety standard. (In Northern Ireland, outdoor fireworks cannot be bought without a licence.)• Keep fireworks in a closed metal box and take them out one at a time.
• Make sure to follow the instructions, reading them by torchlight, not a naked flame.
• Light with a safety firework lighter or fuse wick and never return to a lit firework.
• NEVER carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Don’t give sparklers to children under five, and make sure they are held at arm’s length. Always wear gloves when handling.
Bonfires
• Build bonfires 18m away from houses, sheds, fences, trees and bushes.• Only burn clean, dry timber.
• Place wood for bonfire so that it is stable and never light with flammable liquids.
• Keep pets indoors and everyone well away from the fire.
• Keep buckets of water and the garden hose nearby in case of emergency.
• Pour water on the embers when done.
Remember, remember…
That accidents will happen. In the case of minor burns, the NHS recommends the following treatment:
• Cool the skin using cool or tepid water for between 10-30 minutes, ideally within 20 minutes of the injury happening. This will prevent the burn getting worse.
• Do not use ice, iced water, creams or greasy substances such as butter to soothe the burn. A cool bath or shower will help to ease the pain.
• Apply a layer of cling film over the burn, rather than wrapping it around a limb. A clean, clear plastic bag is suitable to use for burns on your hand.
• If the burn is painful, a mild painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help. Always check the packaging to make sure that you take the correct dosage.
• Do not interfere with the burn or break any blisters. If it is very painful or seems to be getting worse, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647, or visit your GP for advice.
Now that we’ve dispensed the obligatory ‘elf and safety spiel, you have our permission to go forth and set fire to things. (Best avoid the Houses of Parliament though. Some guy tried that once – didn’t end too well.)
That accidents will happen. In the case of minor burns, the NHS recommends the following treatment:
• Cool the skin using cool or tepid water for between 10-30 minutes, ideally within 20 minutes of the injury happening. This will prevent the burn getting worse.
• Do not use ice, iced water, creams or greasy substances such as butter to soothe the burn. A cool bath or shower will help to ease the pain.
• Apply a layer of cling film over the burn, rather than wrapping it around a limb. A clean, clear plastic bag is suitable to use for burns on your hand.
• If the burn is painful, a mild painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help. Always check the packaging to make sure that you take the correct dosage.
• Do not interfere with the burn or break any blisters. If it is very painful or seems to be getting worse, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647, or visit your GP for advice.
Now that we’ve dispensed the obligatory ‘elf and safety spiel, you have our permission to go forth and set fire to things. (Best avoid the Houses of Parliament though. Some guy tried that once – didn’t end too well.)
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