Public firework displays
We recommend that you enjoy a public firework display, rather than buy your own fireworks. Public displays are bigger, more fun and a lot safer.
But if you really want to have your own display, read our safety tips below first.
Who can buy fireworks
You must be aged 18 or over to buy and let off fireworks.
When can you buy fireworks
You can buy fireworks and sparklers from registered sellers, for private use, at certain times year:
- Between 15 October and 10 November
- Between 26 to 31 December
- Three days before Diwali
- Three days before Chinese New Year
You can buy fireworks outside these dates, but only from shops with a special licence.
When can you let off fireworks
For the majority of the year, it is illegal to set off fireworks (including sparklers) between 11pm and 7am.
However, for Bonfire Night the curfew is extended to midnight and for New Year's Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year the cut off is 1am.
What fireworks to buy
When buying fireworks, always look for a CE or UKCA mark to make sure they’re safe to use and only buy fireworks up to Category 3.
Fireworks come in 4 categories,
- Category 1 fireworks are low hazard fireworks. They pose the least danger, make very little noise and are for use in a limited space (including indoors). Examples include party poppers and Christmas crackers.
- Category 2 and 3 are ‘adult fireworks’ and are available in shops and supermarkets. These will have Category F2 or F3 on the box.
- Category 4 fireworks are banned for sale to the public and are for professional displays only. These are available at specialist suppliers.
Safety tips for bonfires and fireworks
Planning
- If you’re having your own fireworks display, plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and ensure it finishes before 11pm.
- Only buy fireworks which carry the CE or UKCA mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time.
- Build your bonfire clear of buildings, sheds, fences and hedges.
- Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of emergency.
Using the fireworks
- Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary, not a match or candle.
- Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back.
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
- Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
- Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
- Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
Clearing up
- Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
- Don’t leave bonfires unattended. An adult should supervise it until it has burnt out. It if has to be left, damp it down with water.
Sparkler safety
Sparklers are often viewed as being harmless, but they burn at fierce temperatures, equivalent to a welding torch. Follow these top tips for sparkler safety:
- Don't give sparklers to children under 5.
- Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves.
- Hold sparklers at arm’s length while being lit and light them one at a time.
- Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people.
- Never hold a baby in your arms while you're holding a sparkler.
- When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water.