Celebrating Bonfire Night with fireworks and a blazing bonfire is one of the great fixtures of the British calendar and an event that both adults and children can enjoy.
However, there are health and safety precautions that must be taken into account to ensure that this event continues to survive and thrive despite the health and safety concerns that can cause extremely serious injuries.
Last year over 4,000 individuals attended A&E because of an injury caused by a firework. Half of those admitted due to discharge of fireworks were aged 18 or under and 80% of those were male.
Examples of injuries caused by fireworks include serious burns to the face, permanent scarring, nerve damage or loss of eyesight and hearing.
You can also develop psychological reactions that could be devastating too.
How to prevent such accidents – top tips from the Firework Safety Code:
- Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable and ensure that it finishes before 11pm;
- Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark. Keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time;
- Read and follow instructions on each firework
- Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back;
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks;
- Never return a firework once it has been used:
- Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them;
- Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators;
- Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire;
- Make sure any bonfire you have is out and the surroundings are safe before leaving.
Serious facts about fireworks – did you know?
- It is an offence to carry fireworks in public if you are under 18;
- Fireworks must not be sold to anyone who is under 18;
- It is an offence under the Explosives Act 1875 to tamper with or modify fireworks.
Please remember to stay safe and act responsibly, but also have fun and enjoy bonfire night!
The Personal Injury team at Moore Barlow Solicitors hope that you and your loved ones never experience an injury whilst you enjoy Bonfire Night, however accidents do still happen and if you suffer an injury as a result of someone else’s negligence then you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim.
Our team will place your well-being at the forefront of the claims process ensuring you get the rehabilitative care you may need following your injury whilst we simultaneously gather the evidence that is needed to build the strongest possible case for you.
If you have suffered a personal injury during Bonfire Night or at any other time in the year and would like to discuss your potential claim with a member of our team please call us.
If you have any questions about the above or require any further information, please contact the one of the team on 01483 543210.
