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    Put safety first at Halloween

    Date published: 30 October 2024

    Put safety first at Halloween. Fireworks, candles and sparklers can be dangerous, so make sure they are used safely. Follow the Firework Code to keep safe.

    Fireworks 

    Fireworks are dangerous and can set fire to buildings and clothing. They can also cause serious injury, particularly to your hands and face.

    You must have a licence to buy or use fireworks.

    Fireworks can cause fear and distress, especially for older people and more vulnerable members of the community.

    Fireworks can also traumatise pets and farm animals.

    Low noise fireworks may be available to buy from your local registered retailer.

    There’s more information at the following link:

    • Fireworks

    Firework safety advice

    Fireworks should only be lit in a safe and controlled environment by a responsible adult.

    You should:

    • follow the Firework Code
    • only buy fireworks marked with a CE mark
    • not drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
    • keep children well away from fireworks
    • always supervise children around fireworks
    • keep pets and animals indoors 
    • keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin when not in use
    • only use fireworks one at a time 
    • keep fireworks away from anything that could cause them to light 
    • follow the manufacturer’s instructions on each firework and use them one at a time
    • only light fireworks outside in an open space
    • light them at arm’s length using a taper and stand well back
    • never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off - it could still explode
    • never put fireworks in your pocket
    • never throw fireworks

    Sparklers

    Sparklers may seem harmless but they burn at very high temperatures.

    To a young child, the heat from a sparkler is similar to the heat from a welding torch.

    You should:

    • store sparklers in a closed box in a cool, dry place
    • never give sparklers to children under the age of five
    • always supervise children using sparklers
    • always light sparklers one at a time 
    • keep sparklers at arm’s length, away from faces, and wear gloves (preferably leather)
    • never hold a sparkler in your hand while also holding a child 
    • never wave sparklers near someone, as you could burn them
    • plunge burnt out sparklers hot end down into a bucket of water (sparklers stay hot for a long time)
    • not take sparklers to public displays 

    Fancy dress costumes

    Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable.

    If you're making your own don’t use flammable materials such as black plastic bags.

    Look out for costumes that are labelled ‘Low Flammability’ ‘BS5722’ or have the European code ‘BS EN 14878’.

    If a child is wearing a fancy dress costume this Halloween:

    • make sure they are properly supervised at all times
    • keep them away from fireworks and naked flames 
    • avoid using a naked flame or candle in pumpkins or turnips - use a torch, glow stick or battery-operated candle
    • choose a costume and mask that doesn’t restrict your or your child’s vision
    • avoid a costume with long, trailing fabric
    • make sure they wear woollen tights or ‘heavy’ trousers (jeans) and a woollen jumper under the costume
    • make them aware of 'stop, drop and roll' - to quickly try to put the flames out if clothing does catch on fire try (and also to stop the flames from rising towards their face)

    Fireworks and the law

    Fireworks must be bought from a licensed dealer, who is required to keep record of sales.

    Fireworks bought from other sources could be of a sub-standard quality, presenting an even bigger risk of injury.

    It is also essential that you have a licence when buying any fireworks.

    You can find a list of licensed dealers on the fireworks page.

    For any enquiries on the use of fireworks, phone the fireworks helpline. 

    More useful links

    • Keeping children safe from burns and scalds
    • Fire safety and prevention
    • Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service
    • Police Service of Northern Ireland
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