The Fireworks Code

• Keep fireworks in a closed box
• Take them out one at a time and put the top back at once! When the box is open, keep it well away from fire and cigarettes
• Follow the instructions on each firework carefully - read them by torchlight never a naked flame!
• Light the tip of firework fuse at arms length - preferably with a safety firework lighter or fuse wick
• Stand well back
• Never return to a firework once lit - it may go off in your face
• Never throw fireworks
• Never put fireworks in your pocket
• Keep pets indoors
• Never fool with fireworks

Bonfire Checklist

• Don't put bonfires near buildings
• Don't build dens inside a bonfire
• Don't use petrol to light a bonfire
• Don't put aerosols or bottles on bonfires
• Don't throw fireworks onto a bonfire
• Remember - if your clothing catches fire - STOP - don't run, DROP to the floor/ground, ROLL OVER to put the flames out

Did You Know

Under regulations set out in the Fireworks Act 2003, from 7 August this year the supply, purchase or possession of excessively loud fireworks over 120 decibels became prohibited. This means that anyone selling or using such fireworks risks prosecution if caught.

The regulations also make it an offence for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in a public place and for anyone to be in possession of a category 4 firework or those used for professional purposes only.

In addition the regulations restrict the hours during which fireworks are permitted to be let off. The regulations make it illegal to let off fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am, though this curfew will be extended to 1am on New Year’s Eve, Diwali Night and Chinese New Year and to midnight on 5 November. People who break the curfew could face a fine of up to £5,000 and/or six months in prison.

These rules are enforced by the police but Croydon Trading Standards will continue to carry out checks on the storage and safety of fireworks sold and will work with the police to help make firework sales and celebration safe.

Thursday, 28 August, 2008

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