Don’t Let Fireworks Ruin the Fun: Safety Warnings Ahead of Bonfire Night

With Bonfire Night celebrations taking place on Wednesday 5th November and continuing into the weekend, High Speed Training is urging people to take extra care when handling fireworks, bonfires and sparklers.

The leading provider of online health and safety courses has shared essential advice to help keep events memorable for the right reasons. If you’d prefer to leave it to the professionals, you can find details of all the organised displays across the county in our Ultimate Guide to Fireworks Displays in Cornwall 2025.

Understanding the Risks

Fireworks and bonfires are a highlight of Bonfire Night, but they can also be dangerous if not managed correctly. High Speed Training stresses that, whether for Bonfire Night, Diwali, or New Year’s Eve, anyone responsible for a display must know how to handle explosives and fires safely.

Dr Richard Anderson, Head of Learning & Development at High Speed Training, said:

“The risks associated with fireworks, bonfires, and even sparklers are significant, but they are also manageable. We urge anyone hosting a display to follow the Firework Code meticulously. Simple steps like planning your display, keeping a safe distance, supervising children, and never returning to a lit firework are essential to prevent devastating injuries.”

The Firework Code: Top Priorities

• Buy from a reputable shop: Only purchase fireworks that are UKCA marked (or CE marked) from a licensed seller.

• Keep them boxed: Store fireworks in a closed, fireproof box and take them out one at a time.

• Follow instructions: Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully.

• Light at arm’s length: Use a taper or safety lighter, not a match, and stand back immediately.

• Never return to a lit firework: Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.

• Maintain a safe distance: Keep spectators behind a designated line or barrier.

Bonfire Safety Tips

• Choose a clear site: Keep the bonfire away from fences, sheds, trees and buildings.

• Check for wildlife: Inspect the pile for pets or wild animals such as hedgehogs before lighting.

• Never use accelerants: Avoid petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids. Use domestic firelighters instead.

• Keep water nearby: Have buckets of water or a hosepipe ready.

• Supervise at all times: Never leave a bonfire unattended.

• Extinguish completely: Douse with water and ensure all embers are fully out before leaving.

Sparkler Safety

• Not for under-5s: Sparklers should never be given to young children.

• Wear gloves: Always handle sparklers with gloves on.

• Supervise closely: Keep a watchful eye on children.

• Keep your distance: Avoid waving sparklers near others.

• Extinguish in water: Sparklers can reach up to 1600°C, so plunge them into a bucket of cold water after use.

Be Responsible

Dr Anderson added:

“We also want to remind people of other crucial steps. It’s vital that a sober adult is in charge of lighting the fireworks; never drink alcohol if you’re managing the display. Remember, it’s illegal for under-18s to carry fireworks in public, and there’s a strict 11 pm curfew for setting them off.

“Be a good neighbour by informing them in advance, and keep your pets safely indoors with the curtains closed and background noise on. Finally, for personal safety, tie back long hair near the bonfire, wear eye protection, and never throw discarded fireworks onto the flames, as they could still explode. Knowing the basics of treating a minor burn is also a sensible precaution.”

By taking these steps, High Speed Training says hosts and guests can enjoy the celebrations safely and avoid preventable accidents.

For more advice and detailed guidance, visit the High Speed Training Hub or read their full article on Bonfire & Firework Safety: Assessing the Risks.

🎆 Want to watch the fireworks without the stress?

Check out our Ultimate Guide to Fireworks Displays in Cornwall 2025 to find all the organised displays happening across the county this week.