Have a safe firework season!

We are now in the middle of the firework season, which traditionally runs between 15 October and 10 November. 

The fireworks code helps to ensure everyone stays safe when enjoying fireworks, especially if you’re hosting a display at home

The Firework Code includes advice on the following:

• always keep fireworks in a closed box, take them out one at a time and close the box afterwards
• never put fireworks in your pocket
• be considerate, let your neighbours know you will be having a display, especially if they are elderly or have pets or children
• avoid setting fireworks off later in the evening, particularly if it is a school-night
• ensure your own pets are safe
• carefully follow the instructions on EACH firework
• never go back to a lit firework unless the instructions advise otherwise
• never throw fireworks; it is dangerous
• light fireworks one at a time, at the end of the fuse, and at arm’s length
• light sparklers one at a time and wear suitable gloves, even when lighting them
• never give sparklers to a child under the age of 5
• never throw spent fireworks on a bonfire

Fireworks should not be set off in the street or other public places, or between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions like Bonfire Night itself, New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year when it is later (midnight on Bonfire Night and 1:00am for New Year festivities.

Councillor Karen May, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities said: ”We know that fireworks season is a time some people look forward to as we enter the colder months, for some it’s an opportunity to share some quality time with family and friends and make some really lovely memories. But for some people, pets and their owners, it can also be a really stressful season. The most important thing is to make sure that everyone including our furry friends, stay safe ahead of a fireworks display, whether it’s an organised display or at home. Our Trading Standards team are making visits to some shops who are selling fireworks this year to ensure they are complying with storage and supply and to provide advice for anyone purchasing fireworks.”

The Trading Standards Team are also reminding retailers about the rules around storage and sales.

Most businesses that sell fireworks only do so during the firework season, with a handful in the County having all year-round licenses.

It is very important that, if you choose to buy fireworks that you get them from a licensed supplier rather than in places like car boot sales or even from people on social media sites.

Fireworks must not be sold to anyone under 18. Licensed suppliers will sell fireworks with the CE mark or UKCA mark that comply with the current safety standards. Do not buy fireworks from unlicensed retailers.  These fireworks may be unsafe and illegal.

Anyone concerned about firework sales or storage in Worcestershire, at retail premises or online, can contact the Trading Standards either by calling the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or they can email the team on TSenquiries@worcestershireTS.gov.uk