FOLLOW THE FIREWORK CODE CAREFULLY

THE FIREWORK SAFETY CODE: ON THE NIGHT REMEMBER...

1.  To light fireworks at arms length with the portfires provided

2.  Never to smoke while handling fireworks

3.  Not to have more than three or four people lighting fireworks

4.  Not to fire rockets or other aerial fireworks over the heads of spectators

5.  Not to allow people to bring their own fireworks (including sparklers)

6.  Not to touch a dud firework for at least half an hour and then hold it away from your face

7.  Never to use petrol or paraffin to light the bonfire

8.  Not to let children gather spent fireworks after the display

9.  Not to let any unauthorised people into the firing area before or after the display

10.  Make sure the bonfire is out completely and the site left in a safe condition

 
 
PROMOTING AND RUNNING YOUR DISPLAY

Most groups now set up a small organising committee to administer the event. Try and get at least one member experienced in firework displays. Clearly define the duty of each member of the committee, for example one person could be responsible for the ordering storing and lighting of the fireworks, another for liasing with local authorities, police, fire brigade, another for site facilities and crowd control and so on. Fireworks International have experienced staff on hand who can offer help and guidance and can also provide a really useful video of how to do it. Additionally HSE produce a useful guide HSG 124 ‘Giving Your Own Firework Display'. Fireworks International have also negotiated with their insurance brokers to provide you our customers with basic third party cover at a very competitive rate, so take advantage of this very special offer and fill in the form provided.

Your site should ideally look like the diagram on the site safety page. Pay particular attention to the wind direction and if at all possible have an alternative arrangement on site if the wind changes. If you decide on a bonfire make sure that it is at least 15metres from buildings roads, Emergency services - police, fire brigade

Coast guards if applicable

Airport authority if applicable

Local institutions It is wise to inform local hospitals, nursing homes and farms with animals

Prevent access of spectators to the safety, fall out and firing areas by some suitable fence or barrier. Try and provide an adequate number of clearlybring their own fireworks including sparklers. Make sure there is equipment available for putting out small fires (extinguishers, water, fire blankets).

Well before the day draw up a plan to cover what could go will be taken' and ‘Who will take the action' Here are some likely problems:-wind direction, accident from firework injury, bonfire unsafe, disorderly spectators.

When the fireworks arrive check to see that they are all there and that you can see no obvious problems. Repack them into the card boxes and store in a cool dry place until needed. It is strongly recommended that firers read the instructions on the fireworks and examine thehave expert staff on hand to deal with your enquiries. Form a firing plan for the team to follow, basing the site layout closely on the site diagram. Remember it can rain on the day and polythene bags are almost essential to protect the fireworks. They can be quickly and easily removed immediately prior to lighting.

Only allow the firers into the firing area and restrict their numbers to the minimum possible to ensure continuity of the display. Firers should wear suitable clothing. Always use portfires to light the fireworks at arms length. Never lean over a firework. If a firework fails to ignite then leave it well alone for at least 30 minutes.

Keep the firing area clear of spectators until the firers have had time to clear up. Locate and deal with any to make them harmless. The spent fireworks should be collected into refuse sacks for disposal. Ensure the bonfire has been completely extinguished. It is a good idea to return to the site at first light next day to make a final inspection.

Intending organisers of public or semi public displays should be aware of the requirements of the Health and safetythe safety of those directly involved but also to the safety of members of the public. This leaflet is intended only to provide basic guidance, compliance with its recommendations is not necessarily sufficient to meet responsibilities placed by the act on those who involved in firework displays.