Bonfire Night Do’s and Dont’s

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Published on Sunday, 26 October 2014 11:39

Last Updated on 26 October 2014

Monica Costa

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Like every year, children cannot wait for bonfire fireworks. It’s an annual ritual and London has to offer so much for families with young children. This year Bonfire Night is on 5th November but the most spectacular fireworks display are on Saturday 8th November.

Bonfire Night is also known as Fireworks’ Night or Guy Fawkes’ Night and is a British tradition that dates back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when Catholic conspirator Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I. An interesting anecdote about this tradition is that before each State Opening of Parliament the Yeoman of the Guard search the cellars in the Houses of Parliament. The 5th November remembers when Fawkes was arrested.

Fireworks displays are usually organised and advertised for locally across London usually in parks.

Some people attempt their own fireworks but that’s when it becomes dangerous. Here are do’s and don’ts in health and safety for Bonfire Night.

 

Bonfire Dos and Don’ts

·        Site bonfire well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs AND ALWAYS AWAY FROM FIREWORKS.
·        Build the bonfire stack so that it is stable and never light with flammable liquids.
·        Keep everyone away from the fire, especially children who must be supervised at all times, and pets who are best kept indoors.
·        In case of an emergency, keep buckets of water, the garden hose or a fire extinguisher ready.
·        Pour water on the embers before leaving.

Firework Dos and Don’ts

·        Keep fireworks in a closed metal box and take them out one at a time.
·        Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on each firework. Read them by torchlight – NEVER a naked flame.
·        Light fireworks at arm’s length using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick. NEVER go back to a lit firework.
·        Always wear gloves when handling sparklers and hold at arm’s length. Once finished, put in a bucket of water.
·        Never give sparklers to children under 5.

Best place to watch Bonfire Fireworks in London

Date: Saturday 8th November 2014

Time: 6pm – 8.30pm

Location: Battersea Park, London

This is my personal recommendation for this year. I think Battersea Park will be the best place where you and your kids can watch the fireworks this year. I will be there with my family in a  special Fireman Sam tent – located in prime position to watch the bonfire and the fireworks.  Fireman Sam will be on hand to entertain the children – this is sure to be a great night out for the family.

There will of course be photo opportunities with Fireman Sam on the evening, and we will have a fireman on hand to speak about fire safety do’s and don’ts.