Fireworks - who’s most at risk?
Fireworks cause hundreds of avoidable injuries every year. In the six years between 2000 and 2005 (the last year for which statistics were collected) 6,637 people were hurt and required hospital treatment. There were also two deaths.
Further analysis reveals that the under 19’s are most at risk and the majority of the injuries occur at private or family parties and in the street. The type of firework that causes the most damage are rockets followed by air-bombs/Roman Candles and sparklers.
“Bonfire night is supposed to be an enjoyable time but I would ask everyone to take that little bit more care and follow the Firework’s Safety Code,” said Councillor Pam Doodes, Leader of Wealden District Council. “It is clear from the statistics that unfortunately bonfire night for some people turns from a celebration to misery”.
Wealden District Council and the Safer Wealden Partnership are also reminding everyone about recent changes in the law to stop fireworks causing anti-social behaviour:
It is now an offence for anyone under 18 to possess a firework in a public place.
There is a curfew on firework use between 11pm and 7am with the exception of certain nights, including November 5, when the time is extended from 11pm to midnight and on New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali when the time is extended to 1 am.
It is also an offence to sell a firework to anyone under 18; and it is an offence to let fireworks off in a public place.
“We would encourage people to go to organised events where they can enjoy firework displays in safety, and avoid personal use,” said Chief Inspector Neil Honnor, Wealden Commander for Sussex Police. “To ensure that fireworks are sold and used responsibly, we have planned a series of operations to enforce the relevant legislation, which include overt patrols and covert tactics. We will also be actively enforcing regulations in relation to the anti-social use of fireworks.”
Leaflets about organising safe and successful firework displays are available from Wealden District Council - please telephone 01323 443302.
Here is a reminder of the Firework Code:
· When buying fireworks, make sure they comply with BS 7114 and are clearly marked for their intended use "Indoor, Garden or Display".
· Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin.
· Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately.
· NEVER put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.
· Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp. NEVER use a naked flame.
· Light fireworks at arms length using a taper or a firework lighter.
· Stand well back and NEVER return to a firework after it has been lit; it could explode in your face.
· Always supervise children around fireworks.
· NEVER throw fireworks.
· Keep all pets indoors .
· Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves to hold them and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished.
· Never give sparklers to a child under five.
