Remember, remember the fifth of November… but also remember to stay safe and wrap up warm.
Yes, it’s that time of year again where we casually stand around a giant bonfire and (traditionally) watch a Guy Fawkes dummy burn on top. So if you’re heading out to a bonfire or fireworks display there’s a few things you should keep in mind…
Staying Warm
Winter has arrived folks so get your hats, scarves, gloves and ear muffs at the ready! I’m sure many of you have been to a bonfire before and although yes it’s a fire and there will be heat, you should keep a safe distance in case of sparks and flames. In a nutshell, don’t just rely on the bonfire for heat, get your best winter gear on and warmly enjoy the spectacle of the bonfire at a safe distance.
Bonfires
So you’re all dressed up in your winter best, now it’s time to find a bonfire. The safest and most enjoyable bonfires are always the organized ones. A bonfire can quickly get out of control and that’s the last thing you want to be around. Keep safe and find out where your local bonfire display is going to be – your local police website or community noticeboards are likely to have all the information you need to enjoy an organized bonfire. Here’s a top tip for going to a bonfire: take a torch to help you see around as it’s going to be very dark.
Sparklers
Sparklers are great fun but only if they’re handled correctly. Before lighting a sparkler, check with event organizers to make sure it’s safe to light one. If so, make sure you have plenty of space around you to let the sparkler do its thing! Make sure you’re wearing gloves while holding a sparkler just in case you get wee stray sparks in your direction. Also before you even light a sparkler, stand near a bucket of water so you can dispose of your sparkler safely. Did you know that sparklers can get six times hotter than a pan of cooking oil? Don’t play with sparklers on your own either. Not just because you’ll feel like a loner – if your sparkler decides to turn rogue, you’ll want somebody around who knows what they’re doing.
Fireworks
Firework displays are amazing and there’s nothing I love more than staring up at the night sky watching fireworks explode into bright colours, creating one spectacular sight. However, as pretty as they are, fireworks are also very dangerous. Did you know it’s illegal for anyone under 18 years old to buy or posses fireworks? If you’re caught by the police you can face anything up to a £5000 fine or even six months in prison. Totally not worth the risk!
Local firework displays are always incredible and are organized by professionals who know what they’re doing. Better yet, they’re free! So don’t waste your money trying to buy your own fireworks, head down to a local display and it will be both cheaper and more exciting than you could ever imagine.
So there it is, just keep these safety tips in mind and you’ll have a great Guy Fawkes experience.
To make sure you stay safe this Bonfire Night, make sure you’re up to speed with the Firework Code.
