The evenings are much darker and there is a crispness in the air. Autumn is well and truly here and along with it, all of our favourite seasonal celebrations.
If you’re off to a fireworks display this autumn, be it for Bonfire Night, Diwali or Halloween, Captain Fantastic have some top tips for keeping the whole family safe and happy.
Wrap up warm
It’s starting to get pretty chilly in the evenings now, so if you’re going to be standing around outside make sure everyone is wrapped up well; Coats, hats, scarves and gloves are essential. To keep extra toasty pop on an extra pair of socks.
Stay Dry
Beat the British weather and take along waterproofs, wellies and umbrellas. Even if there is no rain forecast, where there are large crowds, grass can get churned up quickly so make sure you put some wellies or walking boots on to keep your feet warm and dry.
Cover those ears!
If you have young children or children who aren’t keen on loud noises, invest in some earplugs or ear defenders. That way your child can enjoy the spectacular displays without getting upset by the bangs.
Be Prepared
Queues for refreshments at public events are often long so take some drinks and snacks to keep the kids happy whilst they wait for the display to begin. For younger children, consider taking a buggy. It might seem like a hassle in a crowded area but is easier than trying to navigate crowds with small children trailing behind. It also gives them somewhere to sit if their legs get tired.
Know the Firework Code
Children are never too young to start learning how to be safe around fireworks. Whether you are off to a professional firework display or having your own fireworks party in your garden, make sure everyone knows the Firework Code.
- Make sure you buy fireworks that conform to British Standards. Check they have BS7114 written on the box and always buy from a reputable store. Always check the amount of space needed when buying fireworks to ensure you don’t buy any that are too big to be used safely in your garden.
- Prepare fireworks in daylight. Read the instructions for setting up and lighting your fireworks carefully. Make any necessary preparations in daylight, for example, supports for rockets or Catherine wheels.
- Make sure everyone is standing well back from the fireworks. Check the instructions to see how far away they should be. Get another adult to help supervise children whilst you light fireworks to ensure everyone is safe.
- Light fireworks at arm’s length with a taper. Never return to a lit firework and always keep a bucket of water handy for emergencies.
- Make sure all pets are shut up safely inside.
Remember it is illegal to let off fireworks after 11pm!
Sparkler Safety
Bonfire Night just wouldn’t be the same without sparklers. If you’re planning to light some, make sure everyone knows how to use them safely.
- Did you know sparklers can be five times hotter than cooking oil? It is important to remember that they are not toys and should never be given to children under five.
- Always hold sparklers horizontally and at arm’s length and don’t forget to wear gloves.
- Don’t use sparklers around babies or very young children as they can unexpectedly reach out to grab them.
- Always supervise children when using sparklers. Remind them not to wave sparklers near anybody else and not to run while holding them.
- Once sparklers have gone out, place them in a bucket of water. NEVER pick used sparklers up off the floor if dropped as they could still be very hot!
We’d love to see pictures of your firework fun this Autumn. Share them with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. For more advice on staying safe now the nights are darker, check out our article on Winter Road Safety.