Member Article

Bonfire night fire safety tips

Firework Safety Top Tips

Fireworks are a staple of Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and many other celebrations, but remember to take precautions to ensure everyone is safe and injury-free by following these top tips from leading charity insurance broker, ThirdSectorProtect.

Know the Risks

Injuries mainly occur because many people don’t realise just how dangerous fireworks can be. They can injure not only the users, but also spectators. All fireworks pose potential risks of burns, blindness and other injuries.

Safe Use

When using fireworks, always plan carefully in advance and follow all safety procedures. Here are some suggestions to ensure safety and avoid accidents:

• Use fireworks outdoors only, and make sure the site is large enough for the display. Check for overhead lines that may be near the site.
• Check weather reports both before and on the day of the event.
• Keep spectators a safe distance away, preferably with barriers, out of the zone where the fireworks will fall.
• Only allow the display operator or firing team into the firing zone and the safety zone around it.
• Make sure you have enough fire extinguishers, buckets of water and buckets of sand ready.
• Do not use fireworks if under the influence of drink.
• Aim fireworks away from people, homes, trees, etc.
• Never try to relight a firework that didn’t go off.
• Plan for what to do if things go wrong. Make sure someone will be responsible for calling emergency services.
• Prohibit spectators from bringing their own fireworks, including sparklers.
• Unless you are a professional firework display operator, make sure you only use fireworks in categories 1, 2 & 3.

Many charities and not-for-profit organisations organise firework displays as they can be a great way to raise awareness and money for a particular cause. If your organisation is one of these and you aren’t sure whether you current charity insurance gives you the protection you need, simply call the ThirdSectorProtect insurance team on 0800 877 8277 or request a charity insurance quote.

And above all, stay safe this Bonfire Night.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by ThirdSectorProtect .