Celebrated on 5th November, Bonfire Night is a beloved British tradition that commemorates the foiled Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Today, it’s a festive occasion marked by bonfires, fireworks, and the burning of Guy Fawkes effigies. In Northamptonshire, including towns like Wellingborough, Rushden and Kettering, Bonfire Night is a much-anticipated event featuring numerous public displays and private gatherings, making it a perfect time to enjoy the spectacular fireworks with friends and family.
Choosing the right Fireworks:
Before purchasing Fireworks for your Bonfire Night celebration, you should familiarise yourself with any local regulations or restrictions. While specific guidelines may vary slightly, adhering to local rules and regulations is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
At Bestbuys in Wellingborough, our team of firework experts are dedicated to helping you create a memorable and safe Bonfire Night celebration. With many years of experience handling and selling fireworks, our knowledgeable staff are equipped to provide personalised guidance and advice. Whether you are a seasoned pyrotechnic enthusiast or new to the world of fireworks, we are here to help you select the perfect fireworks for your event.
When you visit our store, our friendly and helpful staff will take the time to understand your specific needs and preferences. We’ll guide you through our extensive selection of fireworks, helping you choose products that are not only visually stunning but also right for the size of your garden or display area.
Our commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond simply selling fireworks. We can also provide valuable information and advice to help you enjoy Bonfire Night without compromising safety. From choosing the right fireworks for your event to ensuring proper handling and disposal, our knowledgeable team is on hand to help make your Bonfire Night experience a positive one.
Firework Safety Tips:
We truly believe in the importance of safe and responsible firework use. Even though the legal age for buying fireworks is 18, our policy is to only sell fireworks to adults over the age of 21. For a safe and memorable Bonfire Night, here are some essential tips to enjoy your very own firework display:
- Firework Storage – For safe fireworks storage at home, store them in a cool and dry place, such as a lockable metal storage box or cabinet, away from heat and ignition sources. Always keep them in their original packaging to avoid damage. You should also make sure that fireworks are kept out of reach of children.
- Safe Location – Choose an open, flat area away from buildings, trees, and flammable materials. Ensure there is plenty of space around the bonfire and fireworks display.
- Keep a Safe Distance – Maintain a safe distance from the bonfire and fireworks. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe viewing distances.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing – When lighting fireworks, it is advisable to wear gloves along with head and eye protection. Choose flame-resistant clothing that covers your arms and legs, and avoid loose or unbuttoned clothing that could pose a fire risk. When holding a sparkler, wear gloves and keep the sparkler at arm’s length, as sparks can fly!
- Have a Water Source Nearby – Always have a water source, such as a hose or bucket, readily available to quickly extinguish any fireworks or accidental fires.
- Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions – Carefully follow the instructions on each firework and read them by torchlight (never a naked flame). Light fireworks at arm’s length.
- Never Return to a Lit Firework – Once a firework has been lit, never return to it. If it fails to ignite, wait at least 30 minutes before you consider approaching it again.
- Supervise Children – Children should always be supervised by adults during your display. Never give fireworks to children under the age of 18. Never give sparklers to a child under the age of 5.
- Dispose of Fireworks Safely – After the display, Fireworks that have successfully gone off and cooled down can be put in a bin after use. If your fireworks have misfired or are no longer wanted then submerge them in water for 48 hours before putting them in a bag and disposing them in the bin.
Enjoy Bonfire Night Responsibly:
By following these safety tips and choosing the right fireworks, you can create a memorable and enjoyable Bonfire Night celebration wherever you are. Remember, the most important thing is to prioritise safety and have fun!
If you are looking for additional firework safety tips for Bonfire Night, check out these resources from the Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) and British Fireworks Association (BFA)…
Additional Resources:
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service Website – Bonfires and fireworks:
https://www.northantsfire.gov.uk/bonfires-and-fireworks/
YouTube – NFRS Firework Safety message:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgbcvSb-31o
YouTube – NFRS Bonfire safety – Liz Armstrong:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tV4nCx17SfA
British Fireworks Association – The Firework Code:
https://www.britishfireworksassociation.co.uk/download/bfa-firework-code-pdf-white/?wpdmdl=755